Celebrate Bayram Holidays in Turkey – Sweet Traditions & Shared Memories

Celebrate Bayram in Turkey – Sweet Traditions & Shared Memories

As 2026 unfolds, Bayram holidays offer something truly special for our UK‑based travellers, especially those with Turkish roots or a love for Türkiye’s culture. These joyful festivals are an invitation to share in centuries‑old traditions, reconnect with family and friends and indulge in delicious treats – all while enjoying the comfort and peace of mind that comes with our all‑inclusive packages.

The Joy of Ramazan Bayramı (The Sugar Feast)

Ramazan Bayramı marks the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan. On the first morning, families rise early, don their bayramlık – new or their best clothes – and gather for a large breakfast to celebrate the breaking of the fast. Throughout the holiday, homes welcome guests with platters of baklava and lokum. It’s customary to visit elders, kiss their hands as a sign of respect and receive sweets or small coins for children. You’ll find public squares and parks hosting Karagöz and Hacivat shadow plays, while cafés and restaurants offer special menus to mark the occasion. Although banks and many government offices close for the official three‑day holiday, tourist areas remain lively and many coastal resorts continue operating normally.

The Community Spirit of Kurban Bayramı (The Sacrifice Feast)

About two months after the Sugar Feast comes Kurban Bayramı, a four‑day celebration of charity and community. Families either purchase a cow, goat or sheep for sacrifice – sharing the meat with relatives and the poor – or make donations to charitable organisations in lieu of an animal. Dressed in their best clothes, people visit each other and exchange warm wishes; children receive gifts and new outfits. Many travellers take advantage of the long holiday to reconnect with loved ones across Türkiye. Public services and banks close during Kurban Bayramı, and domestic travel routes can be crowded, so planning ahead with a trusted agent is essential.

Planning Your Bayram Journey

Bayram holidays are busy periods; roads and airports fill with families eager to reunite, and ferries to islands and cross‑country buses often sell out early. To make the most of the celebrations:

• Book early – Reserve your flights and accommodation in advance to secure seats and avoid last‑minute price spikes.
• Allow extra travel time – Highways and public transport see heavier traffic during the first and last days of Bayram; plan accordingly.
• Embrace local customs – Dress modestly and be respectful during prayer times. If you’re invited to someone’s home, a small box of sweets or chocolates makes a thoughtful gift.
• Experience off‑peak travel – Travelling a few days before or after Bayram allows you to enjoy coastal resorts and heritage sites with fewer crowds and shorter queues.

Let’s Plan Your Bayram Getaway Together

Whether you’re reuniting with family in Istanbul, exploring the tranquil beaches of the Aegean or discovering Turkey’s historic inland towns, Bayram is a time to share joy and make memories. As your trusted travel partner, we handle every detail – from fixed‑rate flights with baggage included to carefully selected all‑inclusive resorts – so you can simply enjoy the festivities and focus on loved ones. For more information about who we are, visit our About Us page. Ready to start planning? Reach out via our contact page or stop by one of our London offices. We’d be delighted to help make your Bayram celebration unforgettable.