Turkey has a rich and fascinating history, which consequently gives rise to many important holidays on its calendar. Throughout the year, seven national holidays are celebrated, several of which are connected to the predominant religion in the country, Islam. In total, Turks can enjoy 15 days off work due to these official holidays.
National holidays in Turkey in 2024
April 23: National Sovereignty and Children’s Day (Ulusal Egemenlik ve Çocuk Bayramı)
This day commemorates the first gathering of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey in Ankara in 1920. Additionally, the Institution of Child Protection established Children’s Day on this date in 1929. It emphasizes the importance of children and the nation’s future.
May 1: Labour and Solidarity Day (Emek ve Dayanışma Günü)
This day is to recognize and honor the contributions of workers. It is an official national holiday, during which all public and private institutions are closed.
May 19: The Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day (Atatürk’ü Anma, Gençlik ve Spor Bayramı)
This day commemorates the initiation of the national liberation movement in 1919 by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s arrival in Samsun. Each year, to celebrate this happening, a marathon takes place from Samsun to Ankara, during which Turkish athletes participating in the race carry the national flag. In the concluding ceremony, the flag is handed over to the President of Turkey. Additionally, this day is dedicated to youth.
August 30: Victory Day (Zafer Bayramı)
This day commemorates the victory in the decisive battle against Greece at Dumlupınar, which concluded Turkey’s War of Independence in 1922. It honors the armed forces, and as such, military parades and air force displays are associated with the celebrations. All state leaders participate in the ceremony held at Atatürk’s Mausoleum in Ankara, and the streets are adorned with numerous colorful Turkish national flags.
October 29: Republic Day (Cumhuriyet Bayramı)
As the name suggests, this day commemorates the proclamation of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. During this time, the streets become venues for numerous parades and processions.
Religious holidays in Turkey in 2024
April 9: Ramadan Feast Eve (Şeker Bayramı)
The Ramadan Feast Eve marks the final day of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.
April 10 – 12: Ramadan Feast (Ramazan Bayramı)
Also known as Eid al-Fitr, this holiday signifies the end of Ramadan, the holy Islamic month of fasting. It is a three-day holiday that begins with special prayers at mosques. Families gather for festive meals, exchange gifts, and engage in charitable activities. Traditional desserts like baklava and güllaç are widely consumed during this time.
June 15: Sacrifice Feast Eve (Kurban Bayramı Arifesi)
On the eve of the Sacrifice Feast, many individuals in Turkey shop and cook in preparation for the four-day holiday. Additionally, some may choose to commemorate their deceased loved ones by performing an animal sacrifice.
June 16 – 19: Sacrifice Feast (Kurban Bayramı)
Also known as Eid al-Adha, this holiday commemorates the willingness of Abraham (Ibrahim) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. However, God intervened and provided a ram to sacrifice instead. During this four-day holiday, families who can afford to do so perform the ritual sacrifice of an animal (usually a sheep, goat, or cow), distributing a portion of the meat to the less fortunate. The remainder is consumed within the family and shared with relatives and neighbors.
What is the impact of Turkey holidays on business?
In Turkey, as in many other countries, holidays play a significant role in both social and business life. Important holidays can impact work schedules, consumer habits, and business opportunities.
Notably, the country has a substantial production scale, so it is important to plan for the production process and shipment of goods. Keep in mind that production might be temporarily suspended during holiday periods. Therefore, it is necessary to account for these downtime days in your plans, especially for importers who need to prepare for potential delivery delays.
