Summer may not be in full swing just yet, but Alanya is about to dive headfirst into the season this weekend. The city is gearing up for its 23rd annual International Culture, Art, and Tourism Festival, organised with great enthusiasm by the Alanya Municipality. And this year’s theme couldn’t be warmer: Neighbourhood.
Taking place from May 23–25, the festival will transform the city center—especially the vibrant İskele and Rıhtım areas—into a hub of culture, color, and celebration. Expect a festive atmosphere filled with parades, music, dance, exhibitions, delicious food, and dedicated spaces for youth activities.
Things officially kick off on Friday, May 23, at 6:00 PM with a grand parade starting at the Atatürk Monument. This will be followed by a traditional zeybek dance performance, a Alanya Grand Choir and Orchestra concert, and opening speeches emphasising the theme of neighbourly bonds. From 8:00 PM onwards, food stalls and exhibitions open to the public, leading into a night of international dance performances. The evening wraps up with a live concert by Can Bonomo at 10:00 PM.
On Saturday, May 24, the stage will welcome “Muzolingua International,” a group made up of Erasmus students, at 4:00 PM. Later in the evening, DJ Gökhan Sakaltaş will set the vibe, followed by a powerful performance by Turkish rock legends Bulutsuzluk Özlemi at 10:00 PM. Folk dance shows from various countries will also continue at Rıhtım Square from 5:00 PM.
Sunday, May 25, starts again with folk dance performances at 4:00 PM. DJ Arda Övünç will keep things upbeat in the evening, leading up to the festival’s grand finale: a concert by the world-famous Gipsy Kings feat. Tonino Baliardo at 10:00 PM. Get ready for an unforgettable night of Latin and flamenco rhythms by the sea.
Throughout the festival, the “Neighbourhood Gastronomy Area” will showcase regional dishes from Turkey and its neighbouring countries under the slogan “Shared Plates, Local Flavours.” It’s not just about taste—it’s a cultural experience in itself.
Art lovers are in for a treat, too. Exhibitions will reflect this year’s theme, with standout displays such as “Ashes of the Neighbour,” which explores old neighbourhood life in Alanya from 1920–2000, and “Sister Neighbours: Alanya—Nea Ionia,” which highlights cultural ties with a sister city in Greece. Iranian artist Niaz Hajimagsoudi’s dreamlike illustrations will be displayed in a historic cistern, while the International Cartoon Competition focused on neighbourly themes opens on May 24.
Youth haven’t been forgotten—far from it. The “Young Frequency” zone will be active every day from 6:00 PM, offering DJ sets, graffiti workshops, games, and selfie corners. It’s a space designed with energy and creativity in mind.
This year’s Lifetime Service to Society Award will go to Nurcan Okan, who has led the Alanya Women’s Solidarity Association for an impressive 36 years. She’ll receive the award during the opening ceremony, underscoring the festival’s social commitment as well.
As Alanya’s Mayor Osman Tarık Özçelik put it, this festival isn’t just about entertainment—it’s a celebration of the city itself. It’s a chance to show the world the cultural heartbeat of Alanya. So, if your weekend is still open, this festival might just be the perfect excuse to visit. Don’t miss this three-day celebration of togetherness, tradition, and creativity!
