International Bellapais Music Festival
What it is: This is arguably the most prestigious cultural event in North Cyprus. It features world-class orchestras, opera singers, ballet companies, and classical musicians from around the globe.
Where & When: The stunning Bellapais Abbey in Kyrenia (Girne), usually throughout May and June.
Why it's popular: The combination of breathtaking historical architecture and high-quality performances under the stars creates a magical and sophisticated atmosphere.
International Kyrenia Sea Festival
When & Where: Early July, Kyrenia (Girne) Harbor and Castle
Why it`s popular: A lively and colorful festival celebrating the sea and Kyrenia's deep connection to it. The event features concerts from popular Turkish and local artists, traditional folk dances, spectacular fireworks displays over the harbor, and various water sports competitions. It's a fantastic family-friendly event with a great party atmosphere.
International Famagusta Art and Culture Festival
When & Where: June & July, Salamis Amphitheatre, Famagusta (Gazimağusa)
Why it`s popular: Held in the magnificent ancient Roman amphitheater of Salamis, this festival has a grand and historic feel. The program is diverse, including classical music concerts, opera, rock and pop performances, ballet, and traditional Turkish shows. The incredible acoustics and setting make it a truly special event.
Iskele International Festival
When & Where: Late August to Early September, Iskele (Trikomo) and the Karpaz Peninsula
Why it's popular: A long-running festival that celebrates the culture of the Karpaz (Panhandle) region. It's a major event featuring famous singers from Turkey, international folk dance troupes, traditional Cypriot performances, and a variety of food stalls. It also includes a famous "Golden Bull" festival with bullfighting (a traditional, non-bloody form where bulls lock horns).
Lefkoşa International Festival
When & Where: September, Various venues in Nicosia (Lefkoşa)
Why it's popular: As the capital's main cultural event, this festival aims to showcase a wide range of arts. The program includes theater performances, classical and contemporary music concerts, art exhibitions, and film screenings, often with a focus on bringing international acts to the heart of the walled city.
Olive Festival
When & Where: October, Various villages, particularly Zeytinlik (Kophinou)
Why it's popular: A celebration of the olive harvest, a cornerstone of Cypriot life for millennia. This folk festival is a great way to experience local traditions. You can watch olive-pressing demonstrations, taste fresh olive oil and local Cypriot food, enjoy traditional music and dancing, and purchase local handicrafts.
Wreck Dive Week
When & Where: Annually, often in June or September, Various sites off the coast of Kyrenia (Girne)
Why it's popular: While not a festival in the traditional sense, this is a major international event for the diving community. Northern Cyprus is famous for its shipwrecks, most notably the Zenobia ferry, a world-top-10 wreck. Dive centers host this special week, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe to explore the incredible underwater museums.
European Heritage Days
When & Where: September / October, Historic sites across Northern Cyprus
Why it's popular: Part of a wider European initiative, these days offer special access to historical monuments, museums, and archaeological sites that may have restricted access at other times. It includes free or discounted entry, guided tours, and lectures, providing a fantastic opportunity to delve deeper into the island's rich past.
