Grand Eid al-Adha Celebrations Across Turkey
Istanbul
On the first day of Eid al-Adha, the people of Istanbul enthusiastically performed Eid prayers at historic mosques such as Hagia Sophia, Fatih, Süleymaniye, Sultanahmet, and Çamlıca Grand Mosque. Many worshippers began lining up in the early hours of the morning, with some praying in mosque courtyards due to overcrowding. The presence of foreign tourists in traditional attire and families with children added a special vibrancy to the celebrations.
Ankara
In Turkey’s capital, Kocatepe and Hacı Bayram Veli Mosques hosted thousands of worshippers. The Eid sermons emphasized adherence to Islamic ethics in sacrificial rituals and maintaining environmental cleanliness. After prayers, people exchanged sweets and chocolates in a festive spirit.
Western and Northwestern Cities
In Edirne, worshippers gathered at Selimiye and Eski Camii, while Kırklareli’s Hızırbey Mosque saw large crowds. The provinces of Tekirdağ, Bursa, and Balıkesir also experienced a spiritual atmosphere with collective Eid prayers.
Eastern and Southeastern Regions
Erzurum’s Ulu Mosque and Kars’ Sultan Alparslan Mosque were filled to capacity. In predominantly Kurdish cities like Diyarbakır and Şanlıurfa, Eid prayers were accompanied by prayers for Palestine.
Mediterranean and Southern Coasts
In Adana, worshippers assembled at Sabancı Mosque, while Mersin’s Müftü Mosque also saw large congregations. Gaziantep and Hatay likewise witnessed massive turnouts at mosques.
Central and Anatolian Regions
In Konya, Eid prayers were held at Sultan Selim Mosque, while Kayseri’s Hunat Mosque hosted worshippers. In Nevşehir, people gathered at the Hacı Mustafa Koyubaşı Complex.
Western Thrace (Greece)
The Turkish communities in Komotini (Gümülcine) and Xanthi (İskeçe) also celebrated Eid by attending prayers at local mosques.
The celebrations took place peacefully across Turkey under security measures and with the participation of local officials.
