
The Van Cat Festival: A City's Love Letter to Its Most Famous Resident
February 12, 2026 · Culture & Events
Every autumn, Van celebrates the pure-white, odd-eyed cat that shares its name. The festival mixes research centre visits, handcraft stalls, and street programming across a long weekend — a small event with outsized local character, held each autumn.

The Quiet Art of the Van Kilim
January 14, 2026 · Culture & Events
Van, one of the ancient cities of Eastern Anatolia, stands out not only for its unique natural beauty and historical landmarks but also for its rich tradition of handicrafts. One of the most valuable parts of this cultural heritage is the centuries-old tradition of carpet and rug weaving. In Van, carpet weaving is not only a form of craftsmanship but also a way of life, a means of cultural expression, and an important economic value passed down from generation to generation.