What Do People Celebrate in Turkey? Holidays Kids Should Know

Turkey is a country full of celebrations! Whether it’s a national victory or a joyful religious holiday, Turkish people love to gather with their families, eat delicious food, and share happy moments. In Turkey, there are two main types of holidays: Milli Bayramlar (National Holidays) and Dini Bayramlar (Religious Holidays). Both kinds are very important and special in their own way.

Milli Bayramlar: National Celebrations

National holidays in Turkey are connected to the country’s independence and the founding of the Republic. These days are filled with parades, music, speeches, and flags.

Some important national holidays include:

• Republic Day (Cumhuriyet Bayramı – October 29): Celebrates the founding of the Republic of Turkey in 1923.

• Victory Day (Zafer Bayramı – August 30): Honors a major military victory that helped bring independence.

• National Sovereignty and Children’s Day (April 23): A very special day dedicated just for kids! Schools have performances, and children take part in official ceremonies.

On these days, children often wear special clothes and join school shows and community celebrations with pride and joy.

Ramazan Bayramı: Sweet Treats and Warm Visits

Ramazan Bayramı (Eid al-Fitr) is celebrated at the end of the holy month of Ramadan, which is a time when many Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. After a month of patience and reflection, it’s time for fun, family, and food!

Here’s what makes Ramazan Bayramı so special:

• It lasts for three or four days, depending on the year.

• Families visit each other, especially the elders.

• Children kiss the hands of older family members and receive candies, chocolates, and sometimes small gifts or money.

• Homes are filled with yummy smells—especially of homemade baklava, one of Turkey’s favorite desserts.

This holiday is all about sharing, kindness, and being thankful.

Kurban Bayramı: Giving and Gathering

Kurban Bayramı (Eid al-Adha) is another very important religious holiday. It remembers the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his deep faith and willingness to sacrifice. It’s a time when people think about generosity and helping others.

During Kurban Bayramı:

• Families who can afford it sacrifice an animal (often a sheep or cow).

• Much of the meat is given to the poor and neighbors.

• The rest is cooked into delicious meals and shared with family and friends.

• People dress nicely, visit relatives, and enjoy big family gatherings.

For children, it’s a time to play with cousins, eat amazing food, and take part in traditions that bring everyone closer.

Celebrations That Teach Values

These festivals in Turkey are not just fun—they also teach children important values like respect, generosity, togetherness, and gratitude. Whether it’s sharing food during a religious holiday or celebrating national pride on Republic Day, Turkish holidays are a blend of joy and meaning.

To help children learn more about these wonderful traditions while also learning the Turkish language, Dinolingo offers fun lessons filled with cultural stories, songs, games, and activities. It’s a great way to explore Turkish holidays and customs in a way that’s easy and enjoyable for kids.