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If you are planning to live, work, or travel in Turkey in 2026, knowing the holiday calendar is not just about celebrationit is about survival. One unexpected public holiday can leave you stuck with closed banks, silent government offices, or notoriously heavy traffic jams.
In this guide, we provide the verified list of public and national holidays in Turkey for 2026. This includes the fixed national days and the shifting religious festivals (Bayrams) that define the rhythm of life here.
Confirmed List of Public & National Holidays in Turkey (2026)
Unlike many European countries, Turkey has two distinct types of holidays: National Holidays (fixed dates based on the Gregorian calendar) and Religious Holidays (shifting dates based on the lunar Hijri calendar). In 2026, several national holidays fall on Thursdays and Tuesdays, creating high potential for “Bridge Holidays” (Köprü Tatili)—where the government or companies grant an extra day off to create a 4-day weekend.
- January 1 (Thursday): New Year’s Day (Yılbaşı)
- March 19 (Thursday): Ramadan Feast Eve (Arefe) Half Day (starts 1:00 PM)
- March 20-22 (FridaySunday): Ramadan Feast (Ramazan Bayramı) 3 Days
- April 23 (Thursday): National Sovereignty & Children’s Day
- May 1 (Friday): Labor & Solidarity Day
- May 19 (Tuesday): Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth & Sports Day
- May 26 (Tuesday): Sacrifice Feast Eve (Arefe) Half Day (starts 1:00 PM)
- May 27-30 (WednesdaySaturday): Sacrifice Feast (Kurban Bayramı) 4 Days
- July 15 (Wednesday): Democracy & National Unity Day
- August 30 (Sunday): Victory Day (Zafer Bayramı)
- October 28 (Wednesday): Republic Day Eve Half Day (starts 1:00 PM)
- October 29 (Thursday): Republic Day (Cumhuriyet Bayramı)
How Many Holidays Will Turkey Have in 2026?
In 2026, Turkey observes roughly 15.5 days of official public holidays. However, the impact on daily life is often much larger due to the “bridge” system mentioned above.
The Religious Festivals (The “Bayrams”)
The two biggest events of the year are the Eid festivals. During these times, official institutions like the Notary Public in Turkey and tax offices are strictly closed. If you have urgent paperwork, do not leave it for these weeks.
Ramazan Bayramı (Eid al Fitr): Marking the end of the holy month of fasting, this is often called the “Sugar Feast.” In 2026, it falls from March 20 to March 22. Since it starts on a Friday, expect a busy travel weekend.
Kurban Bayramı (Eid al Adha): This is the “Feast of Sacrifice” and is the longest holiday of the year. In 2026, it runs from May 27 to May 30. This period is notorious for shutting down commercial activity. While you can still manage basics like Buying Groceries in Turkey, expect reduced hours and empty shelves as supply chains pause.
National Days & Practical Tips
Turkey’s secular holidays honor its modern history. April 23 (Children’s Day) and May 19 (Youth & Sports Day) often feature school performances and stadium events. October 29 (Republic Day) is particularly festive, with flags draping every building and fireworks in major cities.
Expat Pro Tip: If you are in the process of Legalization of Foreign Documents in Turkey, check the calendar carefully. The “Eve” (Arefe) dayssuch as October 28 or March 19—are officially half days. In reality, many officials stop processing new applications by 11:00 AM. Plan your administrative tasks accordingly to avoid getting stuck in holiday limbo.
