"The World's Best Festival" Opens Its Doors for the 27th Time!
The 27th International Istanbul Büyükçekmece Culture and Art Festival Begins
"The World's Best Festival" Opens Its Doors for the 27th Time!
The International Istanbul Büyükçekmece Culture and Art Festival, selected as the "World's Best Culture and Art Festival" for twelve consecutive years by international rating organizations, is opening its doors for the 27th time this year.
Organized in cooperation with the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality and Büyükçekmece Municipality, the festival will take place from 23 July to 1 August, bringing together 650 culture and art ambassadors from 62 countries to celebrate the richness of world cultures.
An International Celebration of Art
The 27th International Istanbul Büyükçekmece Culture and Art Festival will once again host a remarkable program of international events. The festival will feature the International Sculpture Symposium, the International Güler Ertan Photography Competition, the International Altınköprü Folk Dance Competition, the International Handicrafts Exhibition, the International Puppet Workshop, the International Children's Handicrafts Workshop, public concerts, and many other activities, creating unforgettable moments throughout the festival.
A Parade of Stars on the Festival Stage
One of the festival's most popular attractions, the public concerts, will once again offer unforgettable experiences for music lovers. Some of Türkiye's most beloved artists will bring the excitement of the festival to its peak with their outstanding performances and hit songs.
Pop music star İrem Derici will be one of the highlights of the festival with her popular songs and energetic stage presence. Emir Can İğrek, one of the most prominent singer-songwriters of recent years, will meet audiences with his much-loved repertoire. With his powerful voice and impressive interpretation, Ümit Yaşar will add a special atmosphere to the festival by performing some of his most popular works.
The festival venue will become a grand stage where music and entertainment come together through the performances of these outstanding artists. Internationally renowned Turkish percussionist Burhan Öcal will also take the stage, bringing even more excitement and artistic richness to Istanbul's cultural life.
Honouring Outstanding Contributions to Culture, Art and the Press
In addition to its rich cultural and artistic programme, the International Istanbul Büyükçekmece Culture and Art Festival will honour distinguished individuals whose achievements and dedication have left a lasting mark.
As part of the festival's award ceremony, the Lifetime Achievement Award in Culture and Arts will be presented to individuals who have made significant contributions to culture and the arts over many years.
In the field of journalism, the Press Special Award of the Year, Press Achievement Award of the Year, and Press Honor Award of the Year will be presented to journalists who have distinguished themselves through their professional achievements and valuable contributions to the media.
Twelve Consecutive "World's Best Festival" Awards
Founded in 1999, the International Istanbul Büyükçekmece Culture and Art Festival became a member of the World Dance Festivals Association, affiliated with UNESCO, in 2003. It is the only Category A festival in Türkiye to be a member of CIOFF.
Now celebrating its 27th edition, the festival has been honoured twelve consecutive times with the "World's Best Culture and Art Festival" award by both the International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts (CIOFF) and the Federation of International Dance Festivals (FIDAF).