The 26th Turkic World Children’s Festival is set to take place in Istanbul from April 25 to May 1, 2026. Organized by the Turkic World Research Foundation (TDAV), this annual event aims to foster cultural exchange, strengthen bonds of friendship, and introduce children from various Turkic republics and communities to Turkey.
A Platform for Cultural Exchange and Friendship
The Turkic World Research Foundation has been organizing these festivals to allow Turkic children from around the world to meet, build friendships, and experience Turkish culture and history. This year’s festival will host 250 students and 40 teachers from 16 different groups, including Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Turkey, Balkaria, Karachay-Cherkessia, Bashkortostan, Gagauzia, Crimea, Bulgaria, Syria, Iraq, Ahiska, and East Turkestan Turks.
Exploring Istanbul and Turkish Heritage
During their stay, the teachers, hosted by TDAV, will have the opportunity to explore Istanbul’s historical and cultural sites. The children, hosted by families through the Istanbul Provincial Directorate of National Education’s primary and secondary schools, will visit museums, palaces, mosques, shopping centers, and entertainment venues. This immersive experience will allow them to gain a deeper understanding of Turkey, its people, and its rich history.
Key Events of the Festival
The festival’s program is packed with various activities designed to engage and entertain the young participants while promoting cultural understanding.
26th Turkic World Children’s Festival Parade
On Monday, April 27, at 09:00, the 26th Turkic World Children’s Festival Parade will commence. The parade will follow the route from Kadıköy-Söğütlüçeşme-Altıyol to İskele Square, culminating at the Atatürk Monument. This colorful procession is expected to be a vibrant display of the diverse cultures present at the festival.
Festival Show at Ataköy Ahmet Cömert Sports Hall
The main event of the festival, the Festival Show, will be held on Wednesday, April 29, between 09:30 and 12:00 at the Ataköy Ahmet Cömert Sports Hall. This grand spectacle will feature performances by folk dance groups from various Turkic regions. Additionally, international soloist and composer Sevgi Keskin Manisalı will give a concert, adding a musical highlight to the event.
17th Turkic World Children’s Song Contest
The 17th Turkic World Children’s Song Contest will take place on Thursday, April 30, from 19:30 to 22:00 at the Çemberlitaş Youth Center. One child from each participating group will compete in this prestigious event. A jury composed of professors from ITU Turkish Music State Conservatory and Turkic World music experts will evaluate the contestants. The top 10 finalists will receive awards, and the program will conclude with an award ceremony and a concert by Turkic World artist Elif Avcı.
Strengthening Turkic World Bonds
The Turkic World Children’s Festival serves as a crucial initiative in strengthening the bonds between Turkic communities. By bringing children and educators together, it fosters a sense of shared heritage and encourages future generations to maintain and celebrate their cultural connections.
The Turkic World Research Foundation emphasizes that such events are vital for creating lasting friendships and mutual understanding among families from different Turkic regions, paving the way for a more unified and cooperative Turkic world.
