Antalya, Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean jewel, is not only famous for its turquoise coast and ancient ruins but also for a dynamic festival calendar that celebrates culture in many forms. Throughout the year, Antalya hosts diverse events; from internationally acclaimed film festivals to vibrant folk celebrations and gourmet food fairs. Here’s your comprehensive guide to Antalya festivals by season.
📅 January – March 2026
Vehbi Emre & Hamit Kaplan Wrestling Tournament
- When: 8-11 Jan 2026
- Where: Kemer Göynük Sports Hall, Kemer (Antalya Province)
- About: International Greco-Roman wrestling competition held together with the Yaşar Doğu Tournament.
Yaşar Doğu Wrestling Tournament
- When: 8-11 Jan 2026
- Where: Kemer Göynük Sports Hall, Kemer
- About: Men’s & women’s freestyle wrestling ranking tournament held annually alongside the Vehbi Emre & Hamit Kaplan event.
Antalya Foodfest (Gastronomy & Culinary Celebration)
- When: 8-10 May 2026
- Where: Karaalioğlu Park, Muratpaşa (Antalya)
- About: Large food & taste festival showcasing Mediterranean cuisine, local producers, chefs, cooking demos and workshops. Free entry.
- Website: https://antalyafoodfest.com/
Anfaş FoodProduct 2026 (Food & Beverage Fair)
- When: 6-9 Jan 2026
- Where: Anfaş International Fair and Congress Center, Antalya
- About: Specialized trade fair for food and beverage industry professionals.
🎬 April – May 2026
European Archery Championships (Sports)
- When: 18-24 May 2026
- Where: Various venues in Antalya
- About: Continental outdoor archery competition featuring individual, team, and mixed events.
🎶 May – June 2026
International Antalya Dance Music Culture Festival
- When: 4-10 May 2026
- Where: Side & Manavgat (Antalya province)
- About: Folk dance, modern dance, music, and rhythmic performances with international ensembles.
International Antalya Youth Festival
- When: 20-25 May 2026
- Where: Alanya (Antalya Province)
- About: Youth-focused festival with dance, music, and rhythmic gymnastics activities.
International Antalya Summer Festival & Competition
- When: 2-6 Jun 2026
- Where: Antalya city region
- About: Cultural performance festival with folk and modern dance, choir and singing ensembles.
International Antalya Riviera Festival & Competition
- When: 20-24 Jun 2026
- Where: Antalya
- About: Art & dance performance festival promoting cultural exchange among international groups.
🎭 September – October 2026
Aspendos International Opera & Ballet Festival
- When: 14 Sep – 1 Oct 2026 (approximate based on pattern)
- Where: Aspendos Ancient Theatre, Serik (near Antalya)
- About: Iconic classical music and performing arts festival in a 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheater — opera, ballet and orchestral performances under the stars.
- Typical site: https://aspendosfestival.gov.tr (official)
International Folklore Arts Festival in Antalya / Belek
- When: 2-6 October 2026
- Where: Belek (Antalya province)
- About: Multi-national folklore art festival including music, dance, choir, pop and ballroom dance.
International Music & Folk – Dance Festival “Antalya Fest”
- When: 24-30 Oct 2026
- Where: Antalya (city and surrounding)
- About: Music, dance, folk and cultural performances celebrating world traditions.
🍿 Cinema & Film in Antalya
International Antalya Film Festival (Golden Orange)
- When: Autumn 2026 (likely September-October)
- Where: Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM) & venues across Antalya
- About: One of Turkey’s most prestigious film festivals, with competitions for national and international films, documentaries and shorts.
- Venue info: The Atatürk Cultural Center also hosts theater and cinema screenings year-round.
🏃 Public Sports & Outdoor Events
Runtalya Marathon Series
- When: Likely March/April 2026 (typical pattern)
- Where: Antalya city routes (including marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K)
- About: Annual running event spanning multiple race distances, combining sport and festival atmosphere.
Alanya Triathlon (Sports)
- When: October 2026 (approx)
- Where: Galip Dede Beach & environs, Alanya (Antalya Province)
- About: International triathlon competition with swim, bike and run stages as part of the European Triathlon Cup.
Why Antalya’s Festivals Are Special
Antalya festivals blend the region’s stunning natural beauty, rich history, and contemporary cultural vitality. Whether you’re a film buff, music lover, foodie, or cultural explorer, Antalya offers engaging experiences year-round. Many festivals are held in extraordinary settings like ancient theaters, scenic ruins, or along the Mediterranean coast, creating unforgettable atmospheres.
