Check for events in Istanbul: European Capital of Culture 2010

When I was in Istanbul in April this year, I chanced upon a professional concert stage, decked with orchestra and singers,  in Sultanahmet Park (adjacent to the Blue Mosque and Aya Sofya.)  Free of charge, and enjoyed by local families, young and old, and visitors too, the presentation of live Turkish music added a wonderful sense of community and culture to what might have otherwise been a simple, but nonetheless charming, walk in the park.

If you are interested in the culture of Turkey and plan to visit during 2010, you might like to check this website for news of cultural events during your stay.