Festivals
Weekend Escape: The Aegean's Calm Island with the Bozcaada Wine Festival
2025-08-25
Bozcaada, the pearl of the Aegean, draws attention not only with its sea and natural beauty but also with its cultural events. Although the Bozcaada Culture, Art and Grape Harvest Festival, held for the 25th time this year, began on 15 August, it continues until 7 September. If you want to spend your weekend on a peaceful and colourful getaway, Bozcaada is exactly the right address.
Events Not to Be Missed at the Festival
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Grape Harvest Ceremonies: The grape picking and transport events offer a matchless opportunity to experience the island's traditional rituals.
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Workshops and Talks: Workshops where you can get to know winemaking, grape tasting and the local culture continue throughout the festival.
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Concerts: Jehan Barbur will be on stage on Friday 5 September and Gülcan Altan on Saturday 6 September. These events are a wonderful opportunity to feel the festival's excitement.
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Competitions: Traditional events such as the grape queen and Çavuş grape competitions add to the island's welcoming and colourful atmosphere.
A Suggested Weekend Escape Route
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Friday Evening: Cross to Bozcaada by ferry from Geyikli. Settle into your room at the boutique hotel where you are staying and have dinner in the harbour area after a short walk.
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Saturday: Take a walk or a bicycle tour towards the vineyards early in the morning, then join the grape harvest ceremonies. In the afternoon you can visit Bozcaada Castle and the wineries. In the evening, feel the festival's excitement by joining the concert programme.
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Sunday: Go to Ayazma Beach or Akvaryum Cove for the sunset. Before heading back, enjoy the views by the shore with a coffee or a local wine.
As the island will be busy during the festival period, it is important to book your accommodation early. Transport to the island is provided by the GESTAŞ ferries departing from Geyikli; it is advisable to buy your ferry tickets in advance.
You can visit the link below to look at the accommodation options and make a booking:
