National Sovereignty and Children’s Day (Ulusal Egemenlik ve Çocuk Bayramı) is a public holiday in Türkiye celebrated on April 23 every year. It was established by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye, to commemorate the opening of the Grand National Assembly in 1920 — a key moment in the Turkish War of Independence and in the establishment of a democratic state.
Atatürk dedicated this day to children, seeing them as the future of the young republic. By giving the day a double meaning, he underlined the importance of national sovereignty and the belief that the country’s future belongs to its children. It is the first and only children’s holiday in the world dedicated to children by a government — a testament to Atatürk’s progressive vision.
Quick Facts
| Type | Holiday / observance |
|---|---|
| When | Every year on April 23 |
| Next occurrence | April 23 (same date every year) |
| Typical duration | One day |
| Public holiday | Yes, a non-working day in Turkey |
| Best time to visit | April 23 is fixed and celebrated every year on this single date. The celebrations are typically most active from late morning through early afternoon, with major parades and ceremonies taking place outdoors. Afternoon events are often the liveliest, featuring school performances and international children's festival activities. Arrive early if you wish to secure a good viewing spot for parades, as crowds build throughout the morning. |
Dates, programs and prices change from year to year. Always check the official website for the current edition.
Tickets and Booking for National Sovereignty and Children's Day
This is a public holiday with no entry requirements. Events and celebrations throughout Istanbul are free and open to the public. Major parades and ceremonies take place in the streets and public squares from morning onwards, typically starting mid-morning. Official programs, school performances, and special events are announced by local cultural authorities and tourism offices closer to the date. For the current year’s specific events and times in Istanbul, consult the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality tourism website or contact the Istanbul Tourism Bureau, as schedules vary each year.
Why Visit National Sovereignty and Children's Day?
On the 23rd of April every year, the streets of Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir and other large cities, towns and villages across Turkey will be full of local school children. Decked out in brightly clean school uniforms, with the neatest hair and straightest socks, they march proudly alongside fire trucks, police marching bands and other municipal vehicles.
The most distinctive tradition is children symbolically taking over government positions: they serve as governors, mayors, and even parliamentarians for the day, sitting in the speaker’s chair of the Grand National Assembly. Since 1979 the state-run Turkish Radio and Television Corporation (TRT) has run a Children’s Festival, bringing children from different countries to Turkey to experience Turkish hospitality and appear in gala performances on April 23.
How National Sovereignty and Children's Day Is Celebrated
National Sovereignty and Children’s Day preparations start a week before April 23rd (the official day of the holiday). Children in the school start decorating their classes and schools with Turkish flags, balloons, and various ornaments. Children also start writing poems to celebrate the day and do multiple artworks to be exhibited in the school.
Across Istanbul and the entire country, schools organize special programs with folk dances, music, poetry, and plays. Government officials, provincial governors, and mayors symbolically hand over their positions to children’s representatives in a purely ceremonial exercise. On this day, children also replace the parliamentarians in the Grand National Assembly and hold a ceremonial special session to discuss matters concerning children’s issues.
On the day of the festival, speeches and ceremonies address the importance of national sovereignty and children, the earth’s future. Many people visit Anıtkabir (the final resting place of Atatürk) and attend street celebrations.
What It Means for Your Visit
The day of the festival (April 23rd) is a public holiday, so schools are closed, and children attend these festivals as well. Major ceremonies and celebrations take place in Ankara, Istanbul and other major cities. Visitors in Istanbul on this date should expect crowds at major sites, particularly around the Grand National Assembly in Ankara, though celebrations are visible throughout the city. Streets often feature parades and school processions from morning through afternoon.
Most government offices, banks and many shops are closed on this day as it is a national public holiday in Turkey. Museums and cultural institutions typically remain open. For specific events and program schedules in Istanbul that year, check the official tourism website or cultural affairs announcements closer to April 23.
History of National Sovereignty and Children's Day
On April 23rd 1920, during the War of Independence, the Grand National Assembly, the nation’s unicameral parliament, met in Ankara to begin to lay the foundations of the new Turkish republic after the end of the Ottoman Empire. To mark the event, April 23rd was proclaimed a national holiday in 1921, making this the first public holiday in the new republic.
In the first celebrations that was held in Ankara in 1922, children began to be at the forefront of the ceremony. By 1923, the Republic of Turkey, which was completely freed from enemy invasion with the War of Independence, started to celebrate April 23 with enthusiastic holiday events. The official parade took place with great enthusiasm when children and students also attended the ceremony. From this date on, every April 23 began to be celebrated with performances by children and students.
Since 1927 it has also become Children’s Day, when the founder of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, dedicated April 23rd to the children of Turkey to recognise that children are the future of the nation. In 1979, the United Nation’s Year of the Child, the Turkish Government proposed that April 23, be declared a holiday for the children of the world. That same year, Turkiye began inviting children from every country to come and participate in its Children’s Day festivities. The TRT International April 23 Children’s Festival, held since 1979, brings children from approximately 40 countries to Turkey to celebrate together.
How to Get to National Sovereignty and Children's Day
National Sovereignty and Children’s Day celebrations happen throughout Istanbul on April 23. Major public events, parades and school processions take place in central areas including the historic peninsula near the Grand National Assembly memorial sites. Specific parade routes are announced weeks in advance by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality. Most celebrations are visible from public streets and squares; no advance tickets are needed to watch street parades and outdoor festivities. Metro stations may experience heavy crowds during peak celebration hours (typically mid-morning through early afternoon), so plan accordingly or walk to nearby events.
Food Nearby
On April 23, many restaurants and food vendors close as it is a public holiday. Street food vendors and some casual eateries may operate near celebration sites. Parks and public squares often have temporary food stalls during the festivities. Plan to eat early or late, or bring snacks if spending the day watching street celebrations.
What to Bring
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection if celebrating outdoors on a clear day. April weather in Istanbul is mild and pleasant, so light layers are suitable. Bring a hat, sunscreen and water if standing for extended periods to watch parades. Carry a small bag for personal items, as you will navigate crowds.
Photography Rules
No special restrictions apply to photography during public celebrations. You may freely photograph parades, street events and outdoor ceremonies. Schools and organized performances on private grounds may have their own photo policies; ask permission before photographing children in school settings.
Family Suitability
National Sovereignty and Children's Day is entirely family-oriented and the most suitable holiday for children in Turkey. Celebrations are designed specifically for young people, with performances, parades, music, dance and interactive events throughout the day. Children of all ages participate and enjoy themselves. The outdoor parades are colorful and engaging for families. Street closures and large crowds mean navigating with strollers is challenging; consider carriers for small children. Schools organize dedicated family-friendly events; check local announcements for specific programs in your neighborhood.
Istanbul Vibes Tips
- Arrive early to secure a good spot for major parades, especially along main streets in the historic peninsula. The best viewing areas fill up by mid-morning.
- Metro stations become crowded in late morning as families head to celebration sites. Consider walking or taking a taxi if starting your journey after 10 a.m.
- Download the current events schedule from the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality website or tourism office before April 23, as parade routes and ceremony times are announced annually and vary.
- Many restaurants, shops and government offices close as this is a public holiday. Plan your meals and shopping accordingly. Some neighborhood eateries remain open.
- Bring a small backpack rather than a large bag as security at crowded public events may be present. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking and standing during long parades.
Explore Nearby National Sovereignty and Children's Day
Sights near National Sovereignty and Children's Day
Topkapi Palace · typical visit: 3–4 hours without Harem; 4–5 hours with Harem15 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open 09:00–18:30, closed TueMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Blue Mosque · typical visit: 45–75 minutes3 min on foot from Gülhane metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Hagia Sophia · typical visit: 1–1.5 hours8 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open daily 09:00–19:30Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Gülhane Park · typical visit: 1–2 hours7 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open daily 06:00–22:30Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Galata Tower · typical visit: 1–2 hours4 min on foot from Şişhane metro, Open daily 08:30–23:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Browse more: All Events & Holidays · All Holiday
FAQ: National Sovereignty and Children's Day
Is April 23 a public holiday when everything is closed?
Yes, National Sovereignty and Children's Day is a public holiday, so government offices, banks and many shops close. Schools are closed and children participate in festivals. However, many restaurants, cafes and tourist attractions remain open. Museums and cultural institutions typically operate normally. Check ahead if you need specific services.
What are the main celebrations in Istanbul on April 23?
Major parades with schoolchildren in uniform march through central areas. School performances with music, dance, poetry and theater take place in stadiums and public squares. Children symbolically take over government offices. The TRT International Children's Festival features performances by children from many countries. Street celebrations with food vendors, traditional dances and concerts run throughout the day.
Is it safe to be in large crowds during the celebrations?
Yes, April 23 celebrations are family-friendly public events with a festive, patriotic atmosphere. Crowds are peaceful and orderly. Police and security are present. Standard urban crowd safety applies: watch your belongings, keep children close, and allow extra travel time due to street closures and congestion.
Can I watch the parades and events as a visitor?
Yes, all outdoor parades and street celebrations are free and open to the public. No tickets are required to watch. Tourist areas and streets are accessible. Organized school performances and gala events may have designated viewing areas; check local announcements for specific details.
When is the best time to be in Istanbul to see celebrations?
April 23 is the only day this holiday is celebrated, so you must be in Istanbul on that specific date. The liveliest period is late morning through early afternoon when major parades occur. Arrive early to secure good viewing spots as crowds build quickly.
Will hotels and transportation be affected?
Metro and bus services typically run on holiday schedules (may have reduced frequency). Some routes may be altered due to parade street closures; plan extra travel time. Hotels remain open. Book accommodations in advance if visiting during this popular holiday. Check the metro operator website closer to the date for service information.
Is this a good day to visit museums and historical sites?
Most museums and historical attractions remain open on April 23. However, popular tourist sites may experience higher crowds. Major monuments and sites related to Turkish history, such as Anıtkabir in Ankara, attract visitors on this commemorative holiday. Consider visiting less-crowded museums or going early in the morning.
What if I don't speak Turkish—can I still enjoy the celebrations?
Absolutely. The celebrations are highly visual with parades, music, dance, traditional costumes and colorful street decorations. No language knowledge is needed to enjoy the festive atmosphere. International children participate in the TRT Children's Festival performances, making it culturally accessible to all visitors.
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