Safranbolu celebrates its 10th International Saffron Festival
From 1 to 4 November 2026, Cittaslow Safranbolu will host four days dedicated to saffron, gastronomy and local traditions under the theme “Gastronomy Living LAB”.
Organised by Safranbolu Municipality, the 10th International Saffron Festival will bring together saffron harvesting, culinary competitions, chef demonstrations, talks, music and activities for children. Representatives and friends from across the Cittaslow International network are invited to discover the region’s “Red Gold” and the culinary heritage connected to its cultivation.
The programme offers an opportunity to experience Safranbolu’s living traditions, bringing local products, knowledge and community life into focus in keeping with the Cittaslow philosophy.
1 November | 12:00–15:00The opening day features the festival procession and servings of traditional zerde, a saffron pudding, and Cinci Hoca paste at Kazdağlıoğlu Square. Activities for children will take place at Hıdırlık Observation Hill, alongside the International Saffron Harvest at Safranova in Gayza Village.
2 November | 11:00–17:303 November | 11:00–17:00The Historical Bazaar and Hıdırlık Observation Hill will host live cooking demonstrations, talks with chefs and musical performances. Across the two days, the programme also includes the Turkish Chefs Federation (TAFED) National Team Selections, saffron bread and beverage competitions, and award ceremonies.
4 November | From 12:00The festival concludes with “From Flower to Red Gold”, a saffron harvesting and sorting gathering at İsmail Yılmaz’s Saffron Farm in Yukarı Çiftlik Village. This final appointment will introduce visitors to the work behind the spice and the knowledge passed down through its cultivation.
Through encounters with growers, chefs and local traditions, the festival invites the Cittaslow community to explore the relationship between food, place and cultural identity.
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