Turkish culture is shaped by physical cultural activities that document national values. Traditional sports date back to Ottoman period and ancient Turkic tribes. Wrestling traditions show Hellenistic and Persian influences. Kırkpınar wrestling tournament dates back over 650 years
Tulip Festival in Istanbul blooms March-May, featuring millions of tulips. Air Balloon Festival in Cappadocia occurs August-September. Jazz Festival in Istanbul showcases various genres from September. Oil Wrestling Festival in June features traditional matches since 1346. Camel Wrestling Festival in Selcuk spans December to March
Saint Nicholas, known as Santa Claus, was born in Patara, Türkiye. Julius Caesar said "Veni Vidi Vici" after the battle of Zela in 47 BC. The world's first coin was minted by the Lydians in Türkiye. Turkey had two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The world's oldest temple, Göbekli Tepe, dates back to 9600 BCE
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated nationwide. Republic Day commemorates the founding of the Turkish Republic. Ashura celebrates Imam Hussein's martyrdom in July/August. Victory Day honours the Battle of Dumlupınar in 1922. Labour and Solidarity Day celebrates workers on May 1st