Introduction
University students in Turkey usually look forward to the official holidays included in the annual academic calendar, because these public holidays help establish a balance between education in Turkey and psychological well-being.
They also offer students the opportunity to enjoy their free time and participate in various activities. Therefore, in this article, we discuss the most important public holidays in Turkey, including religious and national holidays, and provide students with a comprehensive overview of Turkey’s 2025 official holiday calendar.
Why is it important, as an international student, to know the dates and days of public holidays in Turkey?
- 1. Academic reasons:
- Exams:
Exam dates are often set so that they do not coincide with long public holidays. Knowing these dates helps you plan your studies effectively and avoid intense stress before exams.
- Course projects:
Completing some university projects can take a long time; knowing these dates helps you manage your time better and submit your projects on the specified deadlines.
Discover with us: How can you obtain a student visa to Turkey as an international student?
2. Research and internship opportunities:
- Conferences and seminars:
Many scientific conferences and seminars are held during public holidays; knowing these dates is an opportunity to attend them and expand your academic network.
- Internship programs:
During holiday periods, you can find summer or semester-long internship programs; knowing these dates helps you apply for these programs.
You can use your residence period in Türkiye to make the most of the holidays and learn more about the following topics: Types of residence in Türkiye, their conditions, and the costs of obtaining them in 2025
3. Social and cultural reasons:
- Adapting to society:
Participating in celebrations and social events during holidays strengthens your ability to build strong relationships with Turkish and international students.
- Getting to know the culture:
Official holidays offer great opportunities to get to know Turkish culture and traditions up close.
4. Personal development:
- Travel and exploration:
You can use long holidays to travel within or outside Türkiye, discover new places, and experience different cultures.
- Skill development:
You can use your free time during holidays to improve your language skills or learn new skills.
Also read: Top 10 tips for a better university life
Official Holidays in Turkey in 2025
In Turkey, the determination of official holidays, including for educational institutions, is based on Law No. 2429, which came into force in 1981.
This law replaced Law No. 2739, enacted in 1935, and is regarded as a fundamental element in regulating and consolidating official holidays in the country. It covers all national and religious holidays and includes the official holidays of schools, universities, and public institutions in Turkey for the year 2025; this also includes the 2025 Turkey school holidays.
Read more: Education costs in Turkey for 2025 (detailed)
Are there religious holidays at universities in Turkey?
In Turkey, religious holidays, especially those related to Islam, which is the official religion of the state, are considered a fundamental part of the academic calendar. Some of these holidays are:
- Eid al-Fitr (Ramazan Bayramı)
- Eid al-Adha (Kurban Bayramı)
- New Year’s Day (Gregorian New Year)
- Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year)
In addition to religious holidays, there are many official holidays throughout the year in Turkey, and they stand out with different types of events and meanings. Below is a list of the most important official holidays in Turkey in 2025.
Official Holidays in Turkey
National holidays
Republic of Türkiye National Day:
Every year on October 28 and 29, Turks celebrate the anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Türkiye, and various national events are held that reflect the national unity and pride felt in the country’s achievements.
Democracy Day:
It is celebrated every year on July 15 in honor of democracy and the Turkish martyrs who defended it. On this day, events are held that highlight the importance of democracy in the lives of Turks and its role in shaping the country’s future.
Labor Day:
Labor Day is celebrated every year on May 1 in honor of workers and their great efforts in building the national economy. This day includes events and activities that focus on workers’ rights and the importance of their role in society.
Victory Day:
The Turkish people celebrate this day every year on August 30, and it is considered one of the most important holidays in Türkiye, as it highlights the victories achieved by the Turkish army.
This day is also an occasion to take pride in the country’s military history and the sacrifices of its soldiers, and it is one of the official school holidays in Türkiye.
Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day:
It is celebrated every year on May 19; sports and cultural events are organized to commemorate Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye. This day encourages strengthening the sporting spirit and the sense of national belonging among young people.
Children’s Day and National Sovereignty:
It is celebrated every year on April 23, schools are closed on this occasion, and special events are organized for children to strengthen the concept of national sovereignty and draw attention to children’s rights and their development.
Religious holidays
Ramadan Feast (Eid al-Fitr):
In Türkiye, the holiday starts on the first day of the month of Shawwal according to the Hijri calendar and lasts for three days.
In Türkiye, the 2025 Ramadan Feast holiday is an important religious occasion that celebrates the end of the blessed month of Ramadan and includes religious and family rituals such as the Eid prayer, distribution of alms (zakat and sadaqah), and family visits.
Eve of the Feast of Sacrifice (Arafah Day):
The eve of the Feast of Sacrifice is observed on the ninth day of the month of Dhu al-Hijjah; this day is Arafah Day and is one of the most important days in the Hijri calendar. On this day, Muslims perform the rites of Hajj and prepare to celebrate the Feast of Sacrifice.
Feast of Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha):
The Feast of Sacrifice is celebrated from the tenth to the thirteenth day of the month of Dhu al-Hijjah and lasts for four days. During the feast, animals are sacrificed and the meat is distributed to the poor and those in need; this occasion is regarded as an opportunity that emphasizes solidarity and social assistance.
Other official holidays in Türkiye in 2025
New Year’s Day:
The Gregorian New Year is celebrated every year on January 1. On this day, schools and universities are closed, and Turks spend the beginning of the new Gregorian year in a festive atmosphere that includes fireworks displays and family gatherings.
Teachers’ Day:
Teachers’ Day is celebrated every year on November 24; this day is dedicated to teachers and their efforts in educating generations. On this day, events are organized that highlight the importance of teachers in society and appreciate their sacrifices in building the country’s future.
Army Day:
Army Day is celebrated every year on November 10; on this day, Turks commemorate Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye, and organize various events to honor the sacrifices of soldiers and highlight the role of the army in protecting the country.
How many days of holiday are there at universities in Türkiye?
Universities in Türkiye stand out with their academic calendars, which include a series of official holidays that allow students to rest and prepare for their exams.
These holidays include a mix of national and religious festivals, as well as some special days.
In general, students have about 15 to 17 days of official holidays each year; however, this number may vary slightly from year to year because religious holidays are determined according to the Hijri calendar.
Public holidays in Turkey greatly affect the services offered to citizens, as most public and private institutions close their doors on these days.
This includes banks, schools, universities, post offices, and public hospitals.
In addition, public transportation services and the operations of other public institutions can also be significantly affected.
You can also benefit by taking a look at this article: What are the most important tips that can be given to students who are new to Turkey?
The most beautiful places to visit in Turkey
Turkey is one of the most beautiful and attractive tourist destinations for tourists coming from different parts of the world.
If you reside there and want to enjoy the 2025 public holidays in Turkey, there are many places that offer you an unforgettable experience, such as:
The city of Bursa:
Bursa is one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey; it stands out with its vast green spaces and public parks, as well as its historical monuments dating back to the Ottoman period, and it is an ideal destination for those interested in nature and history.
City of Istanbul:
Istanbul is a city that you absolutely must see; you can visit many famous sites such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, the Hippodrome Square, and the Basilica Cistern, allowing you to enjoy a rich experience full of history and culture.
Pamukkale Castle:
If you are one of those who love the winter season and cold weather, Pamukkale Castle is an ideal option for you.
This castle is known as a popular destination where tourists from all over the world flock every year to have an enjoyable time.
Cappadocia:
Cappadocia is one of the most unique regions of Turkey; here you can enjoy enchanting natural landscapes made up of fairy chimneys and unique rock formations.
Your visit will not be considered complete without taking a balloon ride in the early morning and watching the sunrise from the sky.
Lake Van:
Lake Van is located in eastern Turkey and is considered one of the largest salt lakes in the world.
The natural scenery around it is breathtaking, and it offers a great opportunity to enjoy boat tours and to visit the historic Akdamar Island, which is home to an ancient cathedral dating back to the Middle Ages.
City of Antalya:
Antalya is considered the capital of tourism in Turkey thanks to its golden beaches and stunning mountains.
Visitors can enjoy a pleasant experience in luxury resorts in coastal towns, and they can also explore the old city (Kaleiçi), which is famous for its historical buildings and traditional bazaars.
Mardin:
For those who love heritage and culture, Mardin is a wonderful destination famous for its old stone buildings overlooking the Syrian plains.
The city brings together a wide variety of cultures that will take you on a journey through history stretching back thousands of years.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do schools in Turkey close in 2025?
Schools in Turkey are expected to close on June 14.
Which days are the weekly holidays in Turkey?
In Turkey, the weekly holidays are Saturday and Sunday.
Is Friday a holiday in Turkey?
No, Friday is considered a normal working day in Turkey.
How many days does the Eid holiday last in Turkey?
In Turkey, the Eid holiday usually lasts 3 to 4 days and can be extended even further during some periods.
When is the 2025 school holiday in Turkey?
The mid-term holiday starts on January 22 and ends on February 2, 2025; the summer holiday starts on June 14.
How many public holidays are there in Turkey?
There are around 15 public holidays throughout the year in Turkey.
When does the holiday start in Turkey in 2024?
The Ramadan Feast holiday started on April 9, 2024, and the Sacrifice Feast holiday started on June 17, 2024.
When is the holiday in Turkey?
The schools’ summer holiday starts in mid-June and continues until mid-September.
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