Istanbul Dance Festival

The istanbul dance festival brings together performance, learning, and international energy in one of the world’s most beautiful cities. First of all, dear reader, let us begin with a short look at dance and its unique history, then move into this special event in Istanbul. If you are curious about workshops, shows, children’s activities, and where to stay, this guide will help you understand what makes the festival so appealing.

istanbul.com Editor
istanbul.com Editor
September 28, 2022 6 min
Share
Istanbul Dance Festival

How Was Dance Founded?

The history of dance relies on the development of the human race. Even in the earliest years of human existence, before the creation of modern civilizations, dance served as a way of expressing human thoughts and emotions. Later on, dance developed into a popular means of expression, communication, and competition, and it became one of the world’s best-known forms of show business.

Istanbul Dance Festival: What to Expect

One of the most famous five dance festivals in the world takes place in Istanbul every year. The festival is not only for dancers or for people who work professionally in dance, but also for those who want to watch, learn, and enjoy the atmosphere. In short, the festival leaves a huge impression on its visitors. You do not have to know how to dance, because the event creates a chance for you to watch, learn, and enjoy your time.

Last year, the dates of the eighth Istanbul Dance Festival were between 27-31 March. The festival was created with the attendance of many dancers from different countries around the world alongside Turkish dancers, and last year’s motto was “Dance for peace and goodness.” The venue of the eighth Istanbul dance festival was Pendik The Green Park Hotel & Convention Center. The dance festival of Istanbul addresses all age groups, from 7 to 70.

The program of the eighth dance festival of Istanbul included Latin dances and concerts, famous Latin DJs and parties, 150 hours of workshops for elementary, normal, and upper levels, and 25 different dance styles across four days. Moreover, for Zumba lovers, there was also a Zumba Party with the motto “Zumba for Health and Sport.”

Are You Ready for the Ninth Istanbul International Dance Festival?

2020 was set to offer dance lovers one of the world’s most well-known and loved dance festivals in Istanbul. The festival hosts dancers every year and welcomes more than 5000 people from more than 80 different countries around the world. The ninth dance festival of Istanbul was going to take place at Pendik The Green Park Pendik Hotel & Convention Center.

The dates of the ninth Istanbul dance festival were between 26-31 March, and the hours were between 12.00-23.30. This edition was also going to host the ninth international children dance festival. Children were going to be able to join Hip-Hop, K-pop, Modern dance, and Zumba activities. Parents were not forgotten either; they could attend symposiums and get information from famous bloggers and dance teachers about dance and children in Turkey.

And there was more. Attenders could try Istanbul street tastes sponsored by Art of Kitchen, enjoy drinks sponsored by Harvard Cafe, and watch children’s shows with their families at Historical Emek Cinema. If you plan to combine the festival with sightseeing, you can also explore central landmarks such as Taksim Square and the atmospheric Bosphorus Cruise on another day.

Festival Venue and Location

The event takes place in Pendik, on Istanbul’s Asian side. This gives visitors a practical base for attending long festival days and then returning to nearby accommodation. For broader transport information in Istanbul, it is useful to check the official public transportation resources at metro.istanbul. For general travel planning in Turkey, GoTürkiye can also be helpful.

Where to Stay?

Istanbul international dance festival lasts 6 days from 26 to 31 March. The festival takes place in Pendik district of Istanbul. Thanks to this choice of location, you can enjoy the festival and then rest in a five-star hotel in the same area. Here are a few accommodation suggestions mentioned for visitors attending the festival.

  • Crowne Plaza Istanbul Asia Hotel offers comfortable rooms, quality meals, and a fully equipped sport center.
  • Divan Istanbul Asia Hotel is another strong choice for people who want to join the international dance festival of Istanbul. One of its advantages is being close to Sabiha Gökçen Airport and important transportation points. The hotel also includes a luxurious Spa & Fitness Center.
  • Inera Hotel is also a notable accommodation option for visitors, with uniquely designed rooms, a terrace cafe, and an elegant restaurant.

Why Visitors Enjoy the Festival

What makes this event appealing is its wide range. It welcomes professional dancers, total beginners, children, families, and people who simply love watching live performances. Workshops, concerts, DJs, parties, and family-friendly activities make the program more than a standard festival schedule. It is designed as an experience where people can learn, socialize, and celebrate dance together.

If you want to discover more cultural experiences in the city during your trip, you might also enjoy the mesmerizing Whirling Dervishes or plan time around Sultanahmet Square for Istanbul’s historic atmosphere.

FAQ About Istanbul Dance Festival

Who can attend the Istanbul Dance Festival?

The festival is designed for a wide audience. It welcomes professional dancers, beginners, children, families, and visitors who simply want to watch performances and enjoy the atmosphere. According to the original event description, it addresses people from ages 7 to 70.

Where is the festival held?

The festival venue mentioned in the event information is Pendik The Green Park Hotel & Convention Center in Pendik, Istanbul. Since venues can change from year to year, it is always best to confirm the latest location details through official event channels before making plans.

What kind of activities are included?

The program described includes Latin dances, concerts, famous Latin DJs, parties, workshops for different skill levels, and many dance styles. There are also Zumba activities and children’s dance programs, making the event suitable for both active participants and spectators.

Is the festival only for experienced dancers?

No. One of the key points of the festival is that you do not have to know how to dance to enjoy it. Visitors can watch, learn, and experience the energy of the event even if they are complete beginners.

Where should I stay during the festival?

Because the event takes place in Pendik, staying in the same district can be convenient. The article mentions Crowne Plaza Istanbul Asia Hotel, Divan Istanbul Asia Hotel, and Inera Hotel as accommodation suggestions for visitors attending the festival.

Things to do in Istanbul

Book the Best Things to Do in Istanbul

Top attractions, guided tours, activities and unforgettable experiences — all in one place.

Explore Things to Doarrow_forward
  • verified_userBest Price Guarantee
  • boltInstant Confirmation
  • groupsLocal Istanbul Experts
favoriteAll of Istanbul. All in one place. lockSecure Booking smartphoneMobile Tickets chat_bubbleLive Support 7/24 Your Istanbul. Your Way.

Find more Istanbul inspiration

Beylerbeyi Mosque
calendar_today Nov 25, 2022 7 min

Beylerbeyi Mosque

Landmarks in Istanbul
calendar_today Sep 21, 2022 5 min

Landmarks in Istanbul

What to Buy in Istanbul
calendar_today Sep 21, 2022 5 min

What to Buy in Istanbul

Istanbul is famously recognized as one of the most significant cities for trade, a reputation that traces back to its prime location on the historic Silk Road, which once served as a vital trade route. From that era to the present day, Istanbul has remained a popular destination for shopping enthusiasts. Many even call it a "shopping paradise" due to its relatively affordable prices compared to other countries and its vast range of product quality standards—offering options from budget-friendly to luxury items.

Free Things To Do In Istanbul
calendar_today Sep 29, 2022 5 min

Free Things To Do In Istanbul

Spring in Istanbul: Tulips, Ferries, and the City at Its Most Beautiful
calendar_today Jul 29, 2026 27 min

Spring in Istanbul: Tulips, Ferries, and the City at Its Most Beautiful

There are good times to visit Istanbul, and then there is spring in Istanbul. This is the season when the city feels freshly polished by light: ferries cut through the Bosphorus under soft skies, hillsides and parks fill

Top Beşiktaş Hotels
calendar_today Jun 21, 2022 5 min

Top Beşiktaş Hotels

Finding a hotel or a general area to choose a hotel might be hard sometimes. So, read on to learn about Beşiktaş and its hotels.

Madame Tussauds
calendar_today Jun 27, 2022 5 min

Madame Tussauds

For a fun time in Istanbul, visit the Madame Tussauds Museum of wax figures. Inside, you will find the figures of some celebrities that are famous around the globe and some names that are precious to Turkish society.

Istanbul in Summer: Rooftop Nights and Bosphorus Evenings
calendar_today Jul 29, 2026 25 min

Istanbul in Summer: Rooftop Nights and Bosphorus Evenings

Summer is when Istanbul becomes less of a checklist and more of a mood. The city stays out late. Ferries cut through golden light. Rooftop terraces fill just before sunset. The Bosphorus shifts from bright blue afternoon

Who is Hagia Irene?
calendar_today Jun 27, 2022 4 min

Who is Hagia Irene?

Visit the 4th-century church, Hagia Irene, inside Topkapi Palace. Book guided tours to save time and learn more about the special Hagia Irene.

Istanbul Derby Football: Rivalries, Tickets, and Matchday Planning for Visitors
calendar_today Aug 26, 2026 12 min

Istanbul Derby Football: Rivalries, Tickets, and Matchday Planning for Visitors

A practical guide to Istanbul derby football for visitors, including rivalries, Passolig, ticket limits, stadium tours, where to stay, and matchday planning.