Turkey, being predominantly an Islamic country, has several major Muslim festivals held on the lines of the lunar calendar. Ramazan, the month-long fast, ends with the festival of Seker Bayram, during which sweets are offered all around. Another important holiday is the Kurban Bayram, a time of fireworks and slaughtering sacrificial sheep (the meat is then distributed to the poor).

In the month of May, Turkey witnesses an arts boom visible in the various film, theatre and music festivals taking place at Ankara, Aydin, Silifke and Ayvacik (usually in late April). Enjoy amphitheatre drama at the Festival of Pergamon at Bergama or partake in some exciting medieval action at the Javelin and Jousting Competition at Konya. In January, one can also witness the unique Camel Wrestling Festival which takes place at Izmir.