Bayram Celebrations in North Cyprus 2026–2027

A typical Beyram celebration meal in North Cyprus

Bayram Celebrations in North Cyprus 2026–2027

Your Complete Guide to Şeker Bayramı and Kurban BayramıBy What’s On In TRNC

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🌙 What Is Bayram?

In North Cyprus, the word Bayram (sometimes spelled “Beyram”) means festival or feast — and there are two main Bayrams celebrated every year:

·         Ramazan Bayramı (Şeker Bayramı / Eid al-Fitr): marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and is also called the Sugar Festival for its sweet-filled celebrations.

·         Kurban Bayramı (Eid al-Adha / Feast of the Sacrifice): a four-day festival of faith, generosity and family, commemorating the story of Ibrahim (Abraham).

These holidays are the most important religious and social events in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), bringing communities together in celebration, gratitude and respect.

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📅 Bayram Calendar for 2026–2027

Year	Festival	Dates (Approx.)	Details
2026	Ramazan Bayramı (Eid al-Fitr)	20 – 22 March 2026	Three-day celebration at the end of Ramadan. Expect closures and family gatherings.
2026	Kurban Bayramı (Eid al-Adha)	27 – 30 May 2026	Four-day festival; many travel to visit family and attend mosque prayers.
2027	Ramazan Bayramı (Eid al-Fitr)	9 – 11 March 2027	A joyous celebration filled with sweets, visits and charity.
2027	Kurban Bayramı (Eid al-Adha)	16 – 19 May 2027	Long weekend of community events, feasts and traditional gift-giving.

🕋 Note: Dates follow the Islamic lunar calendar and may shift by one day depending on moon sightings.

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🎉 How North Cyprus Celebrates Bayram

🕌 Morning Prayers

Each Bayram begins with special prayers at local mosques, followed by visits to family graves to pay respects to loved ones.

🍬 Sweet Traditions

Ramazan Bayramı is affectionately known as the Sugar Festival. Expect every home to serve trays of baklava, lokum (Turkish delight), and mağarına bulli (a traditional Cypriot sweet). Children are often given coins or small gifts after kissing the hands of their elders.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family & Respect

Family is at the heart of Bayram. The younger generation visits elders to express gratitude and receive blessings. It’s also a time for forgiveness and reconnection.

🛍 Shopping & Markets

In the week leading up to Bayram, towns such as Kyrenia, Famagusta, and Lefkoşa buzz with shoppers buying sweets, gifts, and new clothes. Local markets overflow with festive energy — perfect for photos and cultural experiences.

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🌴 Bayram in Northern Cyprus: Local Highlights

·         Kyrenia Harbour: beautifully decorated, often hosting outdoor music and café specials.

·         Lefkoşa Old Town: a vibrant scene of traditional pastry shops and family gatherings.

·         Famagusta: seaside restaurants offer Bayram menus and sunset dinners.

·         Esentepe Area: perfect for quiet family celebrations — many venues host live music and festive buffets.

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💡 Tips for Visitors During Bayram

1.      Plan Ahead: Book restaurants or attractions early; some close during the first Bayram day.

2.      Dress Modestly: Especially if attending mosque prayers or family homes.

3.      Be Respectful: Return greetings like “Bayramınız kutlu olsun” — meaning “May your Bayram be blessed.”

4.      Try the Sweets: Local confectioners prepare once-a-year delicacies you won’t find elsewhere.

5.      Join the Spirit: Many communities welcome visitors to share tea and sweets.

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🗓 Printable Bayram Planner (2026–2027)

Task	When to Do It
Buy festive sweets & gifts	3–5 days before Bayram
Visit family or friends	1st & 2nd day of Bayram
Attend mosque prayer	Morning of 1st day
Plan restaurant booking	1 week before
Check business hours	Day before Bayram starts

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🧭 For Local Businesses

Bayram is also a fantastic opportunity to promote local offers and host themed events.Restaurants, pubs, and hotels often:

·         Introduce Bayram Specials menus

·         Organise live music nights

·         Offer family buffet deals or sweets-with-tea afternoons

👉 Feature your event on What’s On In TRNC — Submit Your Bayram Event Here

🌅 Final Thoughts

Bayram is one of the most heart-warming times to be in Northern Cyprus — filled with hospitality, family warmth, delicious food, and shared joy. Whether you’re a visitor, an expat, or a local, celebrating Bayram here connects you to the island’s most cherished traditions.

Stay tuned to What’s On In TRNC for upcoming Bayram events, restaurant specials, and local guides that make living and visiting North Cyprus even more enjoyable.