Turkey has always been at the crossroads since the beginning of time. Straddling two continents – Asia and Europe – Turkey witnessed several changing of hands before it finally became a sovereign state. Unlike other deeply devout Muslim countries, Turkey balances the influence of religion to public life and celebrates other events of national significance.
Below is the list of Turkey public holiday schedule 2013. As any Islamic country, traveling to Turkey during major Islamic festivals pose challenges to the availability of certain conveniences and needs like food, drinks and shopping.
New Year’s Day, Tuesday 1 January 2013
The first day of the Gregorian calendar is also celebrated even in a largely Muslim society.
National Sovereignty and Children’s Day, Tuesday 23 April 2013
This day in 1920 marks the first opening of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey in the country’s capital, Ankara. This is an important national event dedicated to children.
May Day, Wednesday 1 May 2013
Turkey participates in the international recognition of laborers and their social and economic contribution to the society.
Commemoration of Ataturk and Youth and Sports Day, Sunday 19 May 2013
Turkey’s struggle for independence from the Allies led by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk began on this day in 1919 and ended on July 24, 1923.
Ramazan Bayrami, Thursday to Saturday 8-10 August 2013
The End of Ramadan is celebrated in Turkey for three days. The latter half of the previous day is also considered part of the religious holiday.
Victory Day, Friday 30 August 2013
The final battle fought in Dumlupinar on this day in 1922 proved to be a triumphant turning point to the Turkish forces.
Liberation of Izmir, Monday 9 September 2013
This day in 1922 marks the end of the Smyrna Offensive and the eventual conclusion of the Turkish Independence War. This holiday is only observed in Izmir.
Liberation of Istanbul, Sunday 6 October 2013
This day marks the end of Allied occupation of Istanbul. On October 6, 1923, the last ships of the combined forces of Britain, Italy and France left Turkey’s shores. This holiday is only observed in Istanbul.
Kurban Bayrami, Tuesday to Friday 15-18 October 2013
The Feast of Sacrifice is celebrated in Turkey for 4 days, and the half day (in the afternoon) prior to the first day of the Feast is also considered a holiday. The Feast of Sacrifice is the other major Islamic holiday in Turkey, and the slaughter of livestock is performed on this day. The meat is then distributed to everyone especially the needy.
Republic Day, Tuesday 29 October 2013
Turkey declared to be a republic on April 23, 1920, but it was only on this day in 1923 that its new status was officially acknowledged.
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Article by Chris
Chris had a passion to contribute to society especially to fellow travelers like himself. He also had a passion for Southeast Asia and frequently visited. While brainstorming ideas, he decided that a travel blog dedicated to his favorite countries, Thailand and Singapore, could be more beneficial than any guidebook. Only one year later did the blog’s success bring in more writers, more countries, and more readers.
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