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Festivals in Bodrum

Celebrate the Spirit of Bodrum at the City’s Most Exciting Festivals

Bodrum is a vibrant city that offers a wide range of events throughout the year, from world-class music festivals and cultural celebrations to art exhibitions, food fairs, and outdoor sports competitions. To help you make the most of your time in Bodrum, our events calendar provides a detailed and up-to-date schedule of all the happenings around the city. Whether you’re looking for a specific event during your stay or planning your trip around one of Bodrum’s signature festivals, our calendar has everything you need to stay in the loop. Explore what’s happening in Bodrum this month and mark your calendar for the must-see events.

1. Bodrum Jazz Festival

Feel the Beat of Jazz in an Iconic Setting

The Bodrum Jazz Festival is one of the city’s most anticipated annual events, bringing together jazz lovers and world-class musicians for performances set against the backdrop of Bodrum’s historical landmarks and scenic venues. This multi-day festival features concerts, jam sessions, and workshops, attracting both international and Turkish artists. From intimate performances in outdoor gardens to large-scale concerts in Bodrum Castle, the festival creates a unique blend of music, history, and atmosphere.

  • When: September
  • Where: Bodrum Castle, Marina, and other outdoor venues
  • Highlights: Live performances by renowned jazz musicians, sunset concerts, and jazz workshops.

2. Bodrum Cup Sailing Regatta

A Festival of the Seas

Combining the thrill of sailing with the excitement of a festival, the Bodrum Cup Sailing Regatta is a unique event that brings together sailors from all over the world. While the focus is on competitive sailing, the regatta also features a lively festival atmosphere onshore, with concerts, parties, and festivals activities that celebrate Bodrum’s maritime heritage. Visitors can watch the races from the coastline or join one of the spectator boats for an up-close view of the action.

  • When: October
  • Where: Bodrum Marina and surrounding coastline
  • Highlights: Competitive sailing races, onshore festivities, live music, and boat tours for spectators.

3. Chill-Out Festival Bodrum

Relax and Unwind with Electronic Beats

The Chill-Out Festival transforms Bodrum’s beaches into an oasis of music, art, and relaxation. This popular electronic music festival brings together top DJs and electronic music artists for a weekend of chilled-out vibes, beachside fun, and stunning visuals. With stages set up along the Aegean coastline, the festival offers an immersive experience where festival-goers can dance to laid-back beats, enjoy live performances, or simply relax by the water.

  • When: August
  • Where: Bodrum’s beachfront venues
  • Highlights: International DJs, live performances, beach parties, and a relaxed festival atmosphere.

4. Bodrum International Ballet Festival

Elegance and Grace at the Historic Bodrum Castle

For lovers of dance and culture, the Bodrum International Ballet Festival offers a unique opportunity to enjoy world-class ballet performances in the stunning open-air setting of Bodrum Castle. Featuring performances by renowned ballet companies from Turkey and around the world, this festival is a highlight of Bodrum’s festivals calendar. The fusion of ballet with the backdrop of Bodrum’s ancient castle creates a magical atmosphere for audiences of all ages.

  • When: July
  • Where: Bodrum Castle
  • Highlights: Performances by top international and Turkish ballet companies, set in a breathtaking outdoor venue.

5. Yalıkavak Wine Festival

A Toast to Bodrum’s Emerging Wine Scene

The Yalıkavak Wine Festival is a celebration of the best local and international wines, offering wine tastings, gourmet food pairings, and workshops in the scenic setting of Yalıkavak Marina. Visitors can sample wines from some of Turkey’s top vineyards while enjoying live music, cooking demonstrations, and food from local restaurants. It’s the perfect event for wine enthusiasts and food lovers looking to explore Bodrum’s emerging culinary scene.

  • When: October
  • Where: Yalıkavak Marina
  • Highlights: Wine tastings, gourmet food pairings, live music, and vineyard tours.

6. Bodrum Art Festival

A Celebration of Creativity and Artistic Expression

The Bodrum Art Festival showcases the city’s thriving art scene, featuring exhibitions, performances, workshops, and public art installations. Held at various locations across the city, including galleries, outdoor spaces, and festivals centers, the festival brings together local and international artists for a week of creative exploration. From contemporary paintings and sculptures to traditional Turkish crafts and street art, the Bodrum Art Festival offers something for every art lover.

  • When: November
  • Where: Various venues across Bodrum
  • Highlights: Art exhibitions, workshops, live performances, and public art installations.

7. Bodrum Gourmet Festival

A Feast for the Senses

Bodrum’s culinary traditions take center stage at the Bodrum Gourmet Festival, a celebration of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. The festival features cooking demonstrations by top chefs, gourmet food markets, and tastings of local delicacies, including olive oil, seafood, and artisanal cheeses. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply looking to explore Bodrum’s rich culinary culture, this festival offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

  • When: May
  • Where: Various locations across Bodrum, including the Marina and food markets
  • Highlights: Chef-led cooking demonstrations, gourmet food tastings, local food markets, and wine pairings.

8. Bodrum Hıdırellez Festival

Celebrate the Arrival of Spring

Hıdırellez is a traditional Turkish festival that marks the arrival of spring, and in Bodrum, the celebration is filled with lively folk music, dancing, and festivals performances. The festival includes outdoor activities like bonfire lighting, flower garland weaving, and wishing rituals, all of which symbolize new beginnings and the renewal of nature. It’s a joyous celebration that brings the community together in a colorful and festive atmosphere.

  • When: Early May
  • Where: Bodrum city center and various outdoor venues
  • Highlights: Folk music and dance performances, traditional rituals, and community celebrations.
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