Planning a leisure or business trip to Turkey in 2026? Knowing the country’s national and religious holidays can help you avoid unexpected closures and also experience some of Turkey’s most cherished traditions. This article covers the national and religious holidays in Turkey 2026.
Public Holidays in Turkey in 2026
The Turkish holiday calendar consists of secular and Islamic religious holidays. For this reason, in Turkey, we can observe many days off from work in public institutions, banks, schools, and many private companies to celebrate.
New Year’s Day – January 1 (Thursday)
New Year’s Day in Turkey is celebrated similarly as it is in many countries around the world. People often celebrate the night before with parties, fireworks, and countdowns to midnight. New Year’s Day is usually a time for rest and visiting family and friends.
Ramadan Feast (Ramazan Bayramı) – March 19–21
Ramadan Feast is a three-day holiday that celebrates the end of the month-long fasting period of Ramadan. Families gather to enjoy traditional sweets like baklava and visit their elders to seek blessings. One of the customs is to donate to charity and give small gifts or money to children.
National Sovereignty and Children’s Day – April 23 (Thursday)
National Sovereignty and Children’s Day marks the foundation of the Turkish Grand National Assembly and is dedicated to children. Local governments and schools organize performances and parades featuring children.
Labor and Solidarity Day – May 1 (Friday)
Labor and Solidarity Day includes demonstrations, marches, and public events organized by labor unions. It’s a day of rest for many employees who can choose to participate in these events.
Youth and Sports Day – May 19 (Monday)
Youth and Sports Day commemorates the beginning of the Turkish War of Independence. It is also dedicated to the youth who participate in cultural and athletic events organized by schools and municipalities.
Sacrifice Feast (Kurban Bayramı) – May 27–30
Sacrifice Feast is one of the most significant Islamic holidays. Kurban Bayramı commemorates Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son. On those days, families sacrifice an animal (usually a sheep or a cow), and the meat is shared among relatives, neighbors, and the poor.
Democracy and National Unity Day – July 15 (Wednesday)
Democracy and National Unity Day in Turkey honors the civilians and military personnel who defended democracy during the 2016 coup attempt. Events include official ceremonies, speeches, and candlelight vigils in public squares.
Victory Day – August 30 (Sunday)
Victory Day is for celebrating Turkey’s military victory in the Battle of Dumlupınar during the War of Independence. There are military parades and public ceremonies. People also lay wreaths at the monuments of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and other national heroes.
Republic Day – October 29 (Thursday)
Republic Day marks the proclamation of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, this is one of the most important national holidays. People can enjoy fireworks displays, concerts, and torchlight processions all over the country.
Holidays in Turkey 2026 – Calendar
Before you plan your trip to Turkey in 2026, you should get familiar with the official holidays to avoid issues and enjoy your stay to the fullest.