The International Orange Blossom Carnival, one of Adana's most vibrant springtime events, transforms the city into an open-air festival every April. Since its debut in 2013, the carnival has become one of Türkiye's largest and most colorful public festivals.
Origins and Foundation
The roots of the Orange Blossom Carnival go back to the childhood memories of Ali Haydar Bozkurt, the CEO of Toyota Türkiye. Inspired by the city’s iconic orange blossom scent, Bozkurt dreamed of turning this natural beauty into a public celebration. The first event was held in 2013 and quickly captured public interest, growing into a national phenomenon.
Adana Orange Blossom Carnival (Anadolu Agency)
Events and Atmosphere
Throughout the carnival, Adana's streets come alive with concerts, dance performances, theater shows, and creative workshops. Booths set up in major parks like Atatürk and Merkez offer local delicacies and handmade crafts. Visitors adorn themselves with orange blossom crowns and take souvenir photos as the city celebrates the arrival of spring.
Local Delicacies Featured at the Carnival
The Adana Orange Blossom Carnival is not only a cultural and artistic celebration—it’s also a feast for the taste buds. The festival showcases a wide array of local delicacies that reflect Adana’s rich culinary heritage, making it a favorite event for food lovers.
Adana Kebap (Anadolu Ajansı)
Orange Kadayif Dessert (Çiftlik Dergisi)
Adana Kebab: Spicy, hand-minced lamb kebab grilled on skewers, served with lavash and roasted vegetables.
Bici Bici: A refreshing dessert made with starch pudding, crushed ice, and rose syrup, perfect for spring.
Şalgam: A fermented black carrot drink, spicy and tangy, often enjoyed with kebab.
Taş Kadayıf: A deep-fried stuffed pastry filled with walnuts and drenched in syrup.
Lahmacun: Thin crispy flatbread topped with minced meat, herbs, and spices, rolled with fresh greens and lemon.
Ciğer (Liver): Grilled liver skewers served with onions, parsley, and spicy seasoning—especially popular during breakfast hours!
During the carnival, food stalls and mobile vendors line the streets and parks, offering visitors a chance to experience these flavors in a festive atmosphere. Local chefs and restaurants also participate, adding flair and authenticity to the culinary side of the celebration.
Economic and Tourism Contributions
The carnival also makes a substantial contribution to Adana’s economy. In 2025, around 2.8 million people attended the festivities, generating an estimated ₺7.5 billion in economic impact. Hotels operated at full capacity, while restaurants and cafés saw record business. Transportation companies scheduled additional services to accommodate the influx of visitors.
Official Support and Organization
The event is organized with the support of the Adana Governorship and Adana Metropolitan Municipality, under the framework of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism's Türkiye Culture Road Festivals. The goal is to highlight Adana's cultural richness and promote tourism.
The International Orange Blossom Carnival has become a vital part of Adana’s cultural identity. With each passing year, it continues to draw greater crowds and a more diverse range of activities. The event has grown into one of Türkiye’s most anticipated spring festivals, shining a spotlight on the city's vibrant spirit, hospitality, and natural beauty.
