End of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr) in Türkiye

A lunar-calendar festival

Ramazan Bayramı follows the Hijri calendar, so its dates move through the Gregorian calendar over time. In Türkiye, the holiday marks the close of Ramadan’s month-long fasting period. The name Şeker Bayramı, or “Sugar Festival,” reflects the custom of offering sweets to visitors.[2][3]

The holiday’s meaning is religious as well as social. Prayer services are part of the observance, while visits to relatives, friends and neighbors bring people together after Ramadan. Türkiye’s official tourism information also describes visits to cemeteries as part of the holiday period.[3]

Visits, greetings and treats

Families and friends commonly visit one another during Ramazan Bayramı. Türkiye’s cultural guide describes young people kissing elders’ hands and receiving their good wishes; children may also receive money or small gifts. These customs are presented as traditions, so practices can differ between households and regions.[2]

Visitors are often offered sweets, including baklava. The name Şeker Bayramı is commonly used alongside Ramazan Bayramı because sweets are served to guests. The holiday is also a time for people to attend prayer services and pay respects to deceased loved ones at cemeteries.[2][3]

What the law provides

Law No. 2429 lists Ramazan Bayramı among Türkiye’s general public holidays. It sets the holiday at three and a half days, starting at 1 p.m. on the eve of the first day, and says that official offices and institutions close on general holidays. Special rules remain in place for organizations whose work must continue.[1]

The law includes a Saturday provision: when a national, official or religious holiday ends on a Friday evening, the following Saturday is also a holiday. It does not establish a general substitute day whenever a holiday falls on a weekend.[1]

The legal closure rule specifically covers official offices and institutions. Shop, restaurant and other private-business hours can vary; the official tourism guide says offices, banks and businesses may close from noon on the eve of the holiday. Travelers should check opening times and transport schedules with the relevant provider.[1][3]

Planning around the holiday

The holiday can affect errands and travel because public offices close and some businesses may change their hours. If you need a bank, public service or a particular shop, confirm its schedule before setting out. For trips, check directly with your transport operator, since schedules are not specified by the holiday law.[1][3]