Turkey — Events
Turkish F1 Grand Prix
One of the newer tracks added to the Formula One Season, Istanbul Park has been described as ‘The greatest track ever built’, by Bernie Ecclestone, CEO of the Formula One Administration. It is one of only three races that runs anticlockwise (the Brazillian and San Marino Grand Prix being the other two) and commands the respect of all the drivers. The track is located 56 miles (90km) from the city center.
International Istanbul Music Festival
One of the most prominent events on the city’s cultural calendar and one of the foremost musical events in Europe, the International Istanbul Music Festival is a summer extravaganza of opera and ballet, as well as classical and traditional music. Over the years the festival has hosted world-renown classical performers and groups from around the globe, as well as local artists and traditional music groups, from international philharmonic orchestras, distinguished chamber ensembles and soloists to dance and ballet performances and Whirling Dervishes.
The Bosphorus Swim
This annual event sees over a thousand swimmers navigate the 4.3 miles (7km) of the Bosphorus Straight between Kanlica and Cemil Topuzlu Park, essentially swimming from Asia to Europe. Concurrently, rowers and sailors participate in longer races along the same route. Complementing the event are live brass band performances, water-ski exhibitions and dance performances.
Contemporary Istanbul
Every October artists from all across Turkey converge on the capital to showcase their latest creations in contemporary art. A variety of paintings, sculpture and crafts are displayed for exhibition purposes and also for sale. Admirers from all across Turkey show up for the week to assess, purchase and critique the latest offerings of a fascinating culture.
Whirling Dervishes Festival
Each December a million visitors descend on the Mausoleum of Mevlana in Konya, where the ceremony of the Whirling Dervishes commemorates the great Sufic saint Mevlana in one of the world’s greatest events. The dance is over 700 years old and has gathered the considerable reputation that makes it an unforgettable experience for all those who attend.
