Molasses Festival in Ozanköy, Northern Cyprus

The Molasses Festival (Pekmez Festivali) in Ozanköy is an annual summer event in the Kyrenia (Girne) district of Northern Cyprus, dedicated to the traditions of making pekmez. In 2025, the festival took place from August 29–31, 2025 (the 17th festival). As of February 15, 2026, the official dates for the 2026 festival have not been published in public announcements—they are usually clarified closer to summer in reports from the Kyrenia municipality and local media.

The program typically includes treats (including "şira"), food zones, concerts, folklore performances, cultural activities, and competitions (for example, for sweets made with pekmez).

• What kind of festival is it
• Dates by year and when to expect the announcement
• Where it takes place and how to get there
• What is usually in the program
• What to consider on-site
• How to plan your visit
• Short glossary
• Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of festival is it

The Molasses Festival in Ozanköy is also known as the Ozanköy Pekmez Festivali. "Pekmez" is a thick syrup (molasses) traditionally obtained by boiling down fruit juice; in Northern Cyprus, it is often associated with products made from the carob tree.

The festival takes place in Ozanköy (Kyrenia/Girne district) and usually includes a cultural and musical program, gastronomic zones, stands from local producers, and activities related to traditional cuisine.

Dates by year and when to expect the announcement

Festival dates vary from year to year, but the event is most often held at the end of August. If you are planning your trip in advance, aim for the second half of August and allow for a possible shift within 1–2 weeks.

Where it takes place and how to get there

The festival is held in Ozanköy—a settlement in the Kyrenia (Girne) district of Northern Cyprus. The specific venue (square/festival zone) is specified in the annual program.

How to get there

• By car: The most convenient option, especially for evening concerts. During festival days, traffic jams and limited parking near the venue are possible.
• By taxi/transfer: Convenient for evening trips and if you are without a car. On days with major concerts, it is better to allow extra time for waiting.

If you need a transfer between cities (e.g., Girne — Ozanköy — Nicosia) with a choice of car class, you can check the options: GetTransfer.

What is usually in the program

• Treats and tastings (including "şira" as a welcome drink);
• Food zones and trade stands;
• Folklore groups and dance performances;
• Concerts by artists in the evening part of the program;
• Thematic activities and competitions (for example, for desserts with pekmez—in certain years).

What to consider on-site

• Time: Main stages and concerts often start in the evening; it is more convenient to arrive early to find parking easily.
• Cash: Some points of sale may only accept cash—usually in TL.
• Connection: At mass events, the network is sometimes overloaded; a power bank is useful.
• Children: The format is usually family-oriented, but there is loud music and a late finish in the evening.

If you are arriving as a tourist and need a connection on the road, you can choose an eSIM: Drimsim.

How to plan your visit

1. Check the date and venue in the annual poster 1–2 weeks before your trip (often published towards the end of summer).
2. Plan your route to Ozanköy and allow extra time for parking.
3. If you plan an evening program, think about the return journey in advance (car/taxi/transfer).
4. Take cash in TL, water, comfortable shoes, and a power bank.
5. On-site, follow the signs and announcements of the organizers (the program may be divided by days/stages).

Short glossary

• Pekmez: A thick syrup (molasses) obtained by boiling fruit juice; in Northern Cyprus, carob versions are also common.
• Harnup / Carob: A plant from whose fruits syrups and sweets are made; carob products are widespread in Northern Cyprus.
• Şira: A traditional drink that is distributed as a welcome treat at the festival in some years.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the molasses festival in Ozanköy take place?

Most often—at the end of August. In 2025, the festival took place on August 29–31, 2025. As of February 15, 2026, dates for 2026 have not been published in open announcements.

Where exactly does the festival take place?

In Ozanköy (Kyrenia/Girne district) in Northern Cyprus. The exact venue is usually specified by the organizers in the poster for the specific year.

Is this a paid event?

Entry depends on the year and the format of the program. In most publications, the festival is described as a city/public event with free access, but specific zones or activities may have their own conditions.

Can I come with children?

Yes, the format is usually family-friendly. If you plan to attend evening concerts, you should consider the volume and the late end of the program.

What should I buy or try at the festival?

Most often—products with pekmez and local sweets, as well as seasonal treats in the food zones. The set of participants and the menu change by year.