Islamic Holidays in Turkey with Mina Tours
Turkey is a beautiful country developed with Islamic traditions. But they do not get a chance to bask in Islamic holidays here, which are not simply religious feasts but also joyous festivals in hymns, charity, and family reunions and which, when absent, deprive one of the emotional thrill of the culture and spirituality of the Turkish people.
The major religious holidays in Turkey include Kurban Bayram and Ramazan Bayram which are celebrated as holidays and can impact travel plans so it's important to be mindful of when these events take place and how they might affect your travel arrangements.
Ramazan Bayramı (Eid al-Fitr)
Ramazan Bayramı is another name of Eid al-Fitr, which means the “Sugar Feast” in English, and it marks the end of fasting of that sacrosanct month known as Ramadan. During the following three days, this celebration brings such happiness, gratitude, and enjoyment within a community. Traditional Turkish desserts such as baklava and lokum are served up for a family special meal.
Some of the other activities that people engage in when celebrating include paying a visit to relatives, paying out zakat al-fitr and exchanging gifts. Many individuals, after their loved ones are buried, become a tradition to visit the graves and pray for the deceased. For travelers, congestion involves roads as well as transport services since the majority of the locals are heading home for the holiday.
Kurban Bayramı is the "Festival of Sacrifice". It celebrates the commitment and readiness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son for Allah. The ritual of animal sacrifice (qurbani) is performed by the families, and the meat is shared among relatives, neighbors, and the less privileged. This four-day holiday encompasses the spirit of giving, family gatherings, and critical conscience.
Ramadan Eid festival also adds to the travel activities in Turkey as people visit family. Thus, advance planning is recommended by travelers as the public transport facilities and accommodation would be busier this period.
Minor Islamic Festivals in Turkey
In addition to the major holidays, Turkey observes several important Islamic festivals:
- Mevlid Kandili (Mawlid al-Nabi): Celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) with special prayers and mosque gatherings.
- Regaip Kandili: Marks the beginning of the holy months and is observed with prayers and acts of worship.
- Miraç Kandili (Lailat al-Miraj): Commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s ascension to the heavens, a spiritually significant night for Muslims.
- Berat Kandili (Lailat al-Bara’ah): A night of forgiveness and preparation for Ramadan, observed with Quran recitations and prayers.
- Aşure Günü (Day of Ashura): A day of reflection and sharing, celebrated with the preparation of aşure pudding, symbolizing harmony and community.
Holiday Hours of Operation
During the Islamic holidays, businesses, government offices, and banks in Turkey reduce hours or completely close premises. Most tourist attractions are open, but it is better to check opening schedules ahead of time. Restaurants and shops, especially those in tourist areas, operate as usual, but local establishments may close for part of a day.
Altered schedules are seen on public transport, and the streets tend to be busy as the people travel to celebrate with family. A little planning ahead probably will help you overcome some obstacles and disperse a little of the holiday atmosphere.
