August is hot in Istanbul and the intensity of the weather is matched by the intensity of the summer event season. Istanbul has a wide range of activities on offer in August, from concerts, festivals and a nighttime walk through historical quarters to outdoor film screenings on the shores of the Bosphorus and much, much more.
Read on for our picks for the top things to do in August in Istanbul.
Enrique Iglesias
August 19
Istanbul will host a Grammy-winning musician on Aug. 19, as Spanish singer Enrique Iglesias is set to visit Istanbul as part of his “Sex & Love” world tour. The concert will be at Küçükçiftlik Park on the European side of Istanbul. Tickets can be found at Biletix.
Dansın Ritmi (Rythm of the Dance)
August 20
This dance company performs a great blend of traditional Turkish dances with modern interpretations. It will be staged at the historic Hocapaşa Cultural Center. Tickets are available at Biletix.
https://instagram.com/p/sDFr6WlLZI/
DJ Snake
August 21
French DJ Snake will be performing with Boom Carnaval at Maslak Arena for the first time on August 21, 2015.
https://instagram.com/p/6VxTs0IrOR/
Büyükada Lale Cinema
August 24
Open-air cinema events continue at Büyükada, largest of the Princes’ Islands, a world away from chaotic Istanbul, though accessible in 45 minutes via ferry. Screenings start at 10 p.m. each day.
YAZ Karma Sergi
August 25
This exhibition includes a wide range of artworks from photographs to sculptures produced by artists from different countries. The exhibition will be held at Art350. For further info, visit www.art350.com.
Tarkan
August 26
Concerts by Turkish “megastar” Tarkan will continue from Aug. 26 to 31 at the Cemil Topuzlu Open-air Amphitheatre. Tickets are selling fast on Biletix.
Bisiklet
August 28
İki Tekerlek Üzerinde Taşınan Tutku (Bicycle: Passion carried on two wheels): This exposition narrates the history of bicycles and how their styles have evolved over time. The exposition will be held at the Rahmi M. Koç Museum.
100% Metal Fest
August 29
Dubbed “the heaviest festival of the year,” the festival will be held at Küçükçiftlik Park from Aug. 29 to 31. Doors will open at 1 p.m. and tickets are on sale for between 225-290 liras.
Nightwalk Istanbul
August 29
Nightwalk with Antonina Tourism: Antonina Tourism has organized a night walk through old Istanbul’s famous Divan Yolu (Road to the Imperial Council) stretching from Sultanahmet Square via Beyazıt Square and the Grand Bazaar to Aksaray Square. Tickets are priced at 60 Turkish liras. Click here for further information.
Kırmızı Başlıklı Kız (Red Riding Hood)
August 30
This play to be staged at the Mall of Istanbul’s MOI Stage is likely to be a great entertainment for kids. Tickets can be found at Biletix.
The Summer Show
August 31
Many celebrated Italian paintings, including the works of Enrico Benetta and Roberta Coni, are on exhibit at the Russo Art Gallery. The exhibit will continue until Aug. 31. Please visit www.russoartgallery.com for further information.
