Istanbul’s AKM: Your Complete Guide to January 2026 Cultural Events
Published: January 2026 | Reading Time: 6 minutes
Welcome to Istanbul’s premier cultural destination! The Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM) is kicking off 2026 with an extraordinary lineup of world-class performances. Whether you’re a classical music aficionado, opera lover, or simply looking for an unforgettable cultural experience, AKM has something special for you this January.
Located in the heart of Taksim Square, this architectural masterpiece features state-of-the-art facilities including the 2,040-seat Türk Telekom Opera Hall and the 802-seat Theater Hall. Let’s dive into what’s happening week by week!
Week 1: January 1-7 – New Year Celebrations
January 3 (Friday) – New Year Concert Kick off the new year with Istanbul State Opera and Ballet’s spectacular New Year Concert at the Türk Telekom Opera Hall. Conducted by Murat Kodallı, the evening features beloved waltzes from Johann Strauss, operettas from Lehár and Offenbach, and concludes with the traditional Radetzky March. It’s the perfect way to welcome 2026 with elegance and joy!
January 3-4 (Friday-Saturday) – Wanted: Old Clown for Small Circus Experience Romanian playwright Matei Vişniec’s absurdist masterpiece at the AKM Theater Hall. This thought-provoking play explores themes of aging, relevance, and the human condition through the lens of contemporary European theater.
January 4 (Saturday) – The Time Regulation Institute Turkish literature comes alive with this adaptation of Ahmet Hamdi Tanpınar’s beloved novel. Director Serdar Biliş brings this satirical masterpiece to the stage, exploring themes of modernization and identity in Turkish society.
January 7 (Tuesday) – Do You Know What Sema Is? Sema Ceremony Experience Prepare for a mystical journey! This innovative performance blends the ancient Mevlevi whirling dervish tradition with modern digital art. Art director Yüce Gümüş creates an immersive experience that connects centuries-old Sufi practices with contemporary technology.
Week 2: January 8-14 – Opera & International Artists
January 8, 10 (Wednesday, Friday) – La Traviata Verdi’s timeless masterpiece begins its January run! This tragic love story follows Violetta, a courtesan who sacrifices everything for love. Director Recep Ayyılmaz’s production features stunning sets, elaborate costumes, and powerful vocal performances. Additional performances throughout the month on January 17, 21, and 31.
January 10 (Friday) – Three Greats: Barış Manço, Tanju Okan, Cem Karaca Songs A tribute concert celebrating three legends of Turkish rock music. Experience the iconic songs that defined generations and shaped Turkish pop culture.
January 11 (Saturday) – Vienna Mozart Orchestra New Year Concert ⭐ Featured Event: The internationally renowned Vienna Mozart Orchestra arrives in Istanbul! Founded in 1986, this prestigious ensemble performs Mozart’s greatest works while dressed in authentic 18th-century costumes and wigs. Experience the magic of classical Vienna in Istanbul.
January 11 (Saturday) – Silk Road Journey Concert A unique East-meets-West collaboration featuring Turkish violinist Hasan Gökçe Yorgun and Chinese pianist Jiao Li. This concert celebrates cultural exchange through music.
January 13 (Monday) – Troy by Anadolu Ateşi The renowned Anadolu Ateşi Dance Ensemble presents an epic reimagining of the Troy myth through traditional Anatolian dance fused with contemporary choreography.
Week 3: January 15-21 – Ballet & Turkish Music
January 14, 15, 22 (Multiple dates) – The Nutcracker ✨ Family Favourite: Tchaikovsky’s beloved ballet comes to life with Marius Petipa’s timeless choreography. Join Clara on her magical Christmas Eve journey through the Land of Sweets. Additional performances on January 24, 28, and 29. Perfect for the whole family!
January 16 (Thursday) – Istanbul State Symphony Orchestra Part of the Denizbank Concert Series, featuring a carefully curated program of classical masterpieces.
January 18 (Saturday) – Ferahfeza Concert The Presidential Classical Turkish Music Choir performs traditional Ottoman compositions in the Ferahfeza makam, showcasing the depth and beauty of Turkish classical music tradition.
January 18 (Saturday) – Istanbul Philharmonic Orchestra A special New Year concert by one of Turkey’s premier orchestras, featuring both Turkish and international classical repertoire.
January 19 (Sunday) – From Kopuz to Present Day The Istanbul Historical Turkish Music Ensemble traces Turkish music’s evolution from ancient Central Asian instruments to contemporary forms.
January 20 (Monday) – Classical Fasıl in Hisar Makam Istanbul State Turkish Music Research and Performance Ensemble presents traditional fasıl music performed in the sophisticated Hisar makam.
January 21 (Tuesday) – Miras (Heritage) The State Folk Dance Ensemble celebrates Turkey’s rich folk dance traditions, showcasing regional dances passed down through generations.
Week 4: January 22-31 – Theatre & Commemorative Events
January 22 (Wednesday) – Does Love End? Starring Kerem Alışık and Evrim Alasya, this contemporary Turkish theatre production explores modern relationships and whether true love can endure.
January 23 (Thursday) – IDSO Concert with Ari Rasilainen. The Istanbul State Symphony Orchestra performs under the baton of Finnish conductor Ari Rasilainen.
January 24 (Friday) – The Endless Line of Music: East’s Sound Map on West. An enlightening exploration of how Eastern musical traditions have influenced Western classical music throughout history.
January 27 (Monday) – Son of the North: In Memory of Volkan Konak A heartfelt tribute concert remembering the beloved Turkish folk music artist Volkan Konak and his enduring contributions to Turkish music.
January 30 (Thursday) – IDSO with Giuseppe Mengoli & Cem Babacan The Istanbul State Symphony Orchestra closes the month with conductor Giuseppe Mengoli and renowned pianist Cem Babacan.
How to Buy Tickets
Online Ticket Sales: Purchasing tickets for AKM events is easy and convenient! Tickets go on sale 1 month before each event date. Here are your official ticket purchasing options:
- Biletinial (Primary Ticketing Partner) Website: https://biletinial.com/tr-tr/etkinlikleri/istanbul-akm-etkinlikleri Phone: 0850 333 99 11 Biletinial is AKM’s official online ticketing platform. You can create an account or purchase as a guest.
- AKM Official Website: https://akmistanbul.gov.tr/tr/etkinlikler Browse the complete event calendar and click through to purchase tickets.
- iTicket (Alternative Platform) Website: https://iticket.com.tr Some AKM events are also available through iTicket.
- Box Office Location: AKM Main Entrance, Taksim Square. You can purchase tickets in person at the AKM box office. Student discount tickets (with a valid student ID) are only available at the box office.
Discounts & Special Offers
Student Discounts: Students receive discounted tickets (available only at the AKM box office). Must present a valid student ID at entry.
Türk Telekom Prime Members Türk Telekom Prime customers receive special discounts on select AKM events. Use your promotional code at checkout on Biletinial.
Free Entry: Free tickets are available for:
- Veterans and their families • Martyrs’ widows and orphans • People with disabilities • Turkish citizens over 65 who meet certain criteria
Visitor Information
Location & Access Address: Gümüşsuyu, Tak-ı Zafer Caddesi, 34437 Beyoğlu/Istanbul Metro: Taksim Station (directly connected to the square) Parking: Paid parking available inside AKM
Important Rules • Arrive at least 1 hour before show time • All attendees require tickets (including children) • Most events are for ages 7 and up • No photography or recording during performances • No refunds or exchanges (except for AKM-cancelled events) • No food, drinks, or smoking inside performance halls
Dining Options AKM features several restaurants and cafes, including Divan Brasserie Fuaye, Vakko L’Atelier, and multiple coffee shops. Perfect for pre-show dining or post-performance discussions!
Why Visit AKM This January?
January 2026 at AKM offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience world-class performances in one of Istanbul’s most architecturally stunning venues. From the grandeur of Verdi’s opera to the mystical beauty of Mevlevi ceremonies, from international orchestras to Turkish musical treasures, there’s truly something for every cultural enthusiast.
The center itself is worth visiting even before the show begins. Take time to explore the modern architecture, browse the art library, visit the galleries, and enjoy the vibrant cultural atmosphere that makes AKM Istanbul’s beating cultural heart.
Don’t miss out on these incredible performances! Book your tickets early as popular events sell out quickly.
For More Information:
Official Website: https://akmistanbul.gov.tr
Event Calendar: https://akmistanbul.gov.tr/tr/takvim
Buy Tickets: https://biletinial.com/tr-tr/etkinlikleri/istanbul-akm-etkinlikleri
“Disclaimer: This event information has been compiled from multiple verified sources. We recommend confirming all details directly with AKM or official ticketing partners before purchasing tickets. Our publication is not responsible for any changes to performances, schedules, or cancellations.“
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