Culture & Travel
2 November 2024November marks a time when İstanbul's culture and art scene is at its liveliest, with events springing up across the city. From exhibitions and concerts to theater performances, literary meetups, festivals, and workshops, a multitude of events will gather enthusiasts in Türkiye's cultural capital, İstanbul.
For those curious about what to do in İstanbul this November, we’ve brought together all the events that bring art and culture to the city. If you're ready, let’s set off on an exciting journey through İstanbul’s vibrant culture and arts scene.
İstanbul November Concerts
Al Di Meola Concert
One of the most talented guitarists of our time, Al Di Meola, is set to meet his İstanbul fans on November 7. Playing pieces from his beloved albums like Land of The Midnight Sun and Elegant Gypsy, Di Meola promises an unforgettable music experience, especially for guitar enthusiasts.
Venue: Volkswagen Arena
Date: November 7, 2024, 9:30 PM
Chopin Time
"Chopin Time," a theatrical concert by Emir Gamsız and Ege Maltepe, brings the timeless works of Chopin to life through stories set across different times and places. Premiering in Türkiye, this unique show combining music and theater will debut on November 9 at Süreyya Opera House.
Venue: Kadıköy Municipality Süreyya Opera House
Date: November 9, 2024, 8:00 PM
Türkan
If the idea of seeing the "Sultan of Turkish Cinema" Türkan Şoray on stage excites you, don’t miss "Türkan." Accompanied by a symphony orchestra, this performance brings back unforgettable Yeşilçam memories with classics like Selvi Boylum Al Yazmalım and Dila Hanım. A nostalgic journey awaits, filled with Türkan Şoray's iconic moments.
Venue: Atatürk Cultural Center
Date: November 27, 2024, 8:30 PM
İstanbul November Theaters
Afife
A fresh, modern take on the inspiring story of Afife Jale, Afife stars master actors like Demet Evgar, Tilbe Saran, and Necip Memili. Dedicated to courageous women and artists, the play offers a glimpse behind the scenes of a theater company in occupied İstanbul.
Venue: Zorlu PSM
Date: November 4, 2024, 8:30 PM
The Inspectors
Melih Cevdet Anday's "absurd" play from 1972, The Inspectors, highlights the need to act for an equal world, addressing the polarization created by oppressive systems. Featuring beloved actors such as Aslıhan Gürbüz and Erkan K. Köstendil, this is a must-see for theater lovers.
Venue: Fişekhane Main Stage
Date: November 10, 2024, 7:00 PM
Seyfi Bey
Legendary Huysuz Virjin, the iconic character brought to life by Seyfi Dursunoğlu, revolutionized the entertainment world. Now, Armağan Çağlayan’s writing invites audiences behind the scenes to explore the memories and dreams of Seyfi Dursunoğlu.
Venue: Trump Stage
Date: November 15, 2024, 8:30 PM
Ben Çoktan Gidersiniz Sanmıştım (I Thought You'd Be Gone By Now)
Exploring the question, "When did your childhood end?", this play provides a unique experience with Thom Pain’s poignant writing and Hakan Kurtaş’s powerful performance. It examines life, childhood, love, human relationships, our bond with animals, and our losses, balancing between humor and emotion.
Venue: Kartal Art Theater Hall
Date: November 17, 2024, 8:00 PM
İstanbul November Festivals and Parties
28th İstanbul Theater Festival
The İstanbul Theater Festival is preparing to raise its curtain for the 28th time this November. Curated by Mehmet Birkiye in his first year, the festival presents a lineup of 5 international and 14 local plays. Highlights include the Gülriz Sururi-Engin Cezzar Theater Incentive Award and three new local productions supported by the İKSV Young Artist Fund.
Venue: İKSV
Date: October 22 - November 19, 2024
Halloween Party
With dancing, ghost stories, fun themed games, and an extraordinary party, get ready to be enchanted by the magic of darkness at the Halloween celebration. Awards will be given to the most creative Halloween costumes.
Venue: Kastel
Date: November 3, 2024, 10:30 PM
PenFest
Returning for its fifth year at Çırağan Palace, PenFest brings together famous pen brands from around the world. The festival features vintage collections and unique writing tools, promising a one-of-a-kind experience for pen enthusiasts. It will include competitions and surprise events throughout its two-day run.
Venue: Çırağan Palace
Date: November 9 – 10, 2024, 10:00 AM
Beyoğlu Jazz Festival
Numerous venues across Beyoğlu will host the Beyoğlu Jazz Festival, the first of its kind in Beyoğlu’s history. This remarkable jazz festival will feature renowned Turkish jazz artist Okay Temiz, rising Parisian jazz musician Bada Bada, French composer and director Chassol, and London-based jazz group Luminoso. Alongside ticketed events, there will also be free performances. This stunning jazz event will transform spots from Galata to Hayyam, Çukurcuma to Taksim, into festival grounds.
Venue: Various Venues in Beyoğlu
Date: November 15-17, 2024
Date: November 15-17, 2024
İstanbul November Exhibitions
Atatürk and the National Forces: The Resurrection of a Nation
As part of the Republic’s 101st anniversary celebrations, Panorama 1453 History Museum hosts a special exhibition by Mehmet Akkaya. Open until the end of November, the exhibition offers a close look at works that convey the spirit of the National Forces and reflect the nation’s heroic journey toward the Republic.
Venue: Panorama 1453 History Museum
Date: October 29 - November 30, 2024
