What’s on in Istanbul

International Istanbul Music Festival
16 - 20 May 2022
Various
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 extravaganz…
International Istanbul Music Festival
16 - 20 May 2022
Various
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. Acts include local artists and traditional music groups, international philharmonic orchestras, distinguished chamber ensembles, and soloists, as well as dance and ballet performances and Sufi whirling. Concerts are held in various locations, including some of the historical buildings in Istanbul.
Website www.iksv.org/muzik/english

Contemporary Istanbul
19 — 23 Sep 2022
Lütfi Kirdar Istanbul Convention and Exhibition Centre
Every October, artists from across Turkey converge on the capital to showcase their latest creations in contemporary art. Exhibitions display paintings, sculptures, and crafts, and…
Contemporary Istanbul
19 — 23 Sep 2022
Lütfi Kirdar Istanbul Convention and Exhibition Centre
Every October, artists from across Turkey converge on the capital to showcase their latest creations in contemporary art. Exhibitions display paintings, sculptures, and crafts, and are sometimes sold or auctioned. Admirers show up for the week to asses, purchase and critique.
Website www.contemporaryistanbul.com

The Bosphorus Swim
19 — 21 Aug 2022
Kanlica
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 Eur…
The Bosphorus Swim
19 — 21 Aug 2022
Kanlica
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.