The traditional Turkish festival in Chicago will be held this year on August 1-2 at the Tinley Park Convention Center. The event, which expects approximately 10,000 visitors from across the United States, aims to bring Turkish culture together with American society.
Grand Bazaar free, main stage ticketed
While admission to the festival’s Grand Bazaar area is free, tickets will be required for the main stage programs and special performances. The festival, open both days from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., will feature Turkish cuisine, handicrafts, concerts, folk dances, whirling dervish performances, and children’s activities.
'Turkish Heritage Month' declaration
Ahead of the festival, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson declared August as "Turkish Heritage Month." Johnson presented the official proclamation to Halil Demir, Chair of the Turkish Festival Cultural Heritage Congress Committee, emphasizing the Turkish-American community’s contributions to Chicago’s cultural, social, and economic life.
In a video message, Mayor Johnson invited all Chicagoans and visitors from neighboring states to the festival.
Demir: "A strong bridge of friendship"
"Our mission is to introduce the richness of Turkish culture to future generations and American society in the best possible way. The City of Chicago’s declaration of August as 'Turkish Heritage Month' is a great pride and honor for our community. "
Committee Chair Halil Demir emphasized that the festival is a meeting point that brings together people from different cultures.
Last year drew over 10,000
First held in 2024, the festival welcomed more than 10,000 visitors last year and has quickly become the most comprehensive Turkish cultural event in the U.S. Midwest.
