Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson officially proclaimed August as 'Turkish Heritage Month,' highlighting the Turkish-American community's contributions to the city's cultural and economic life. Johnson presented the official proclamation to Halil Demir, Chairman of the Turkish Festival Cultural Heritage Congress Committee, and invited all Chicagoans and visitors from neighboring states to the festival via a video message.
This year's traditional Turkish festival, to be held on August 1-2 at the Tinley Park Convention Center, plans to welcome approximately 10,000 visitors from across the United States. The festival will offer Turkish cuisine, handicrafts, concerts, folk dances, whirling dervish performances, and children's activities.
Free and Ticketed Areas
Admission to the Grand Bazaar area of the festival will be free. Tickets will be required for main stage programs and special shows. The event will be open both days from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
"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 proclamation of August as 'Turkish Heritage Month' is a great pride and honor for our community."
Committee Chairman Halil Demir emphasized that the festival is a gathering point bringing together people from different cultures.
Past Success
The festival, first held in 2024, drew more than 10,000 visitors last year and quickly became the most comprehensive Turkish cultural event in the US Midwest region.