Kurban Bayram (Kurban Bayramı, Eid al-Adha) is one of the most important Islamic holidays in Türkiye. It is also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice.” The holiday is dedicated to the story of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who was willing to sacrifice his son in devotion and obedience to God.
In Türkiye, this holiday is not only a religious event but also a major family period, when millions of people travel to visit relatives, gather around the table, and help those in need.
When is Kurban Bayram in 2026
According to preliminary official dates in Türkiye:
May 28 — Arefe (the eve of the holiday), a shortened working day. Government offices and banks usually operate until noon (around 12:30–13:00).
May 29 — the first day of Kurban Bayram.
May 29–31 — official public holidays.
Important: In Türkiye, holidays are often combined with weekends. Since in 2026 the period ends on Monday, June 1, the government may extend the holiday period, turning it into a 9-day vacation.
Main traditions of the holiday
Morning prayer
The celebration begins with an early morning prayer in mosques. Many people wear new or their best festive clothes and attend prayer with their families.
Sacrifice ritual
The main tradition is the sacrifice of an animal (usually a sheep, goat, or cow). The meat is divided into three parts:
In Türkiye, this is considered an important act of charity and care. Many modern Turks donate money to charitable foundations such as LÖSEV and Kızılay instead of performing the sacrifice themselves.
Family visits
As during Ramadan Bayram, people actively visit relatives, especially elders. Younger family members show respect by kissing the elders’ hands and touching them to their forehead. Children traditionally receive money and sweets.
Food and atmosphere
Tables are filled with traditional Turkish dishes, sweets, baklava, meat dishes (kavurma), and tea. In tourist regions, the holiday feels more relaxed, but in residential areas the atmosphere is deeply family-oriented and vibrant.
How Türkiye operates during Kurban Bayram
Banks and government offices
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Banks are closed (FAST transfers between banks may work, but standard transfers will be delayed until the next working day)
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Government institutions are closed
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Notaries, migration offices (Göç İdaresi), and municipalities are fully closed
Shops and shopping malls
Large shopping malls usually operate normally, but on the first day may open later (around 12:00–13:00).
Small private shops, markets, and bazaars may be closed for the entire 3–4 days.
Chain supermarkets (Migros, Carrefour, BIM, A101) are often closed on the first day or open after noon, and from the second day operate normally.
Restaurants and cafés
In tourist cities, most places remain open. In non-tourist areas, some family-owned restaurants may close for 1–2 days so owners can spend time with their families.
Museums and attractions
Most state museums and palaces (especially in Istanbul) are closed until noon on the first day. After that, they operate normally but with very long queues.
Transport
This is one of the busiest travel periods of the year:
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airports and bus stations are overcrowded
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there is a severe shortage of tickets for buses and trains
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heavy traffic jams form on intercity roads
Useful tip: In major cities (Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya), municipal public transport (metro, trams, buses, ferries) is often free or heavily discounted during the holiday by decision of local authorities.
In Istanbul, free transport typically includes:
According to information from Antalya Municipality, free public transport was announced for March 20–22, 2026. However, in Alanya, some routes are operated by private carriers, so it is better to уточнять details for specific routes.
What to expect in Alanya during the holidays
At the end of May and beginning of summer, Alanya traditionally enters an active festival season. Among the announced events for 2026:
A vibrant festival is coming: Alanya International Culture, Art and Tourism Festival — May 22–24.
Venue: İskele-Rıhtım Meydanı (Harbour-Docks Square), Alanya
Concerts:
May 22
19:15 Aspendos Ensemble
21:00 DJ Haluk Sarıtaş
22:00 Aşkın Nur Yengi
May 23
21:00 DJ Oğulcan Gümüş
22:00 Melek Mosso
May 24
21:00 DJ Gökhan Sakaltaş
22:00 Goran Bregović
Closer to the holiday, the city usually hosts:
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evening shows and family events organized by the municipality
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concerts on the promenade
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entertainment programs in hotels
Among announced performers: Nova Norda, Rubato, as well as club events at Holly Stone Performance Hall and Summer Garden.
What tourists should know in Alanya:
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beaches, promenades, and cafés will be very crowded
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domestic tourism increases significantly
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taxi, transfer, and hotel prices may rise noticeably
What to expect in Istanbul
Istanbul during Kurban Bayram has two contrasting atmospheres:
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Many locals leave the city, so residential districts become unusually quiet
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Tourist areas (Sultanahmet, Taksim, Kadıköy) remain extremely busy
During the holiday period:
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concerts, cultural festivals, and public events take place
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the Istanbul Music Festival begins around late May–early June
During the holiday:
Important tips for foreigners
Practical advice:
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Take care of paperwork in advance: banking, taxes, residence permits, and нотариальные вопросы should be completed 2–3 days before the holiday
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Withdraw cash: ATMs often run out of money before holidays due to high demand
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Book everything early: flights, buses, and hotels sell out quickly
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Allow extra time for travel: especially when going to the airport
If you are sensitive to the sacrifice tradition:
In modern Türkiye, it is prohibited to perform animal slaughter in public places such as streets, parks, or residential yards. Significant fines apply. Municipalities organize special designated areas (Kurban Kesim Alanları) outside city centers or in industrial zones.
In tourist areas (resorts, central Istanbul and Alanya), you will not see this at all. However, in residential neighborhoods, you may notice livestock transport or meat processing. If this topic is uncomfortable for you, it is best to avoid non-tourist areas on the first day.
Kurban Bayram in Türkiye is a time of family, generosity, travel, and a very vibrant atmosphere. For locals, it is one of the most important periods of the year, and for visitors, a unique opportunity to experience Türkiye not only as a resort destination but as a deeply traditional, hospitable, and united society.
Dear friends,
Due to the Kurban Bayram holiday, our company’s working schedule will change:
We remain available by phone: +90 530 178 29 16
During the holidays, duty managers will be assigned in each department to assist clients оперативно if needed.
We wish you a warm, peaceful, and joyful Kurban Bayram!