753rd Şeb-i Arus Commemoration of Mevlana

The 753rd Şeb-i Arus commemoration of Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi takes place from 7 to 17 December 2026 at the Semâ Hall of the Mevlana Cultural Centre in Konya, Türkiye. Each evening, the Mevlevi sema ceremony is performed in his memory. This guide is for travellers and agencies planning a respectful visit to Konya for Şeb-i Arus.

About the Şeb-i Arus ceremonies

Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi, the 13th-century poet and Sufi scholar, died in Konya on 17 December 1273. His followers call the anniversary Şeb-i Arus, the "wedding night", because they see death as a reunion with God. Every December, Konya holds commemorations ending on 17 December. The official programme is published by the Konya Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism.

The highlight is the sema, the ceremony of the whirling dervishes, recognised by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. It is a spiritual ceremony, not a show, and visitors are asked to watch quietly and respectfully. Many visitors also pay their respects at the Mevlana Museum, where Rumi is buried.

The Şeb-i Arus ceremonies 2026 dates and venue

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism's Konya office lists the 753rd Şeb-i Arus ceremonies from 7 to 17 December 2026. The final night, 17 December, marks the anniversary itself and is usually the most in demand.

The ceremonies are held in the Semâ Hall of the Konya Mevlana Cultural Centre. The official announcement says tickets are sold online through the authorised ticketing platform, with sales that opened on 9 October 2026.

How to get to Konya for the Şeb-i Arus ceremonies

Konya Airport (KYA) has domestic flights, mainly from Istanbul, so most international travellers connect in Istanbul. Konya is also linked to Ankara and Istanbul by high-speed train, which is a comfortable option for groups.

From the airport or railway station, taxis, trams and coaches reach the city centre and the Mevlana Cultural Centre. Travellers should check the official entry requirements for Türkiye before booking.

Where to stay

The area around the Mevlana Museum and the city centre is the most convenient base, with easy access to the cultural centre. Rooms fill quickly during Şeb-i Arus, especially around 17 December, so book early.

Some visitors stay in Ankara or travel from Cappadocia, which is a few hours away by road.

Planning a group trip to the Şeb-i Arus ceremonies

A group tour to Şeb-i Arus usually combines a sema ceremony with visits to the Mevlana Museum, historic mosques and the Seljuk heritage of Konya. Many agencies pair Konya with Cappadocia or Istanbul for a longer cultural or spiritual itinerary.

Brief travellers on etiquette: dress modestly, stay silent during the ceremony, and follow staff instructions on photography. Buy ceremony tickets only through the official channel named by the authorities.

Frequently asked questions

When is Şeb-i Arus 2026 in Konya?

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism's Konya office lists the 753rd Şeb-i Arus ceremonies from 7 to 17 December 2026. The final night, 17 December, marks the anniversary of Mevlana's death.

Where are the sema ceremonies held?

The ceremonies take place in the Semâ Hall of the Konya Mevlana Cultural Centre, close to the Mevlana Museum in the city centre.

How do we buy Şeb-i Arus tickets?

The official announcement says tickets are sold online through the authorised ticketing platform, with sales opening on 9 October 2026. Check the official page for the link and buy only through that channel.

How do we get to Konya?

Konya Airport (KYA) has domestic flights, mainly from Istanbul. High-speed trains also link Konya with Ankara and Istanbul. Most international travellers connect through Istanbul.

What should visitors know about etiquette at the sema?

The sema is a spiritual ceremony. Visitors should dress modestly, arrive on time, stay quiet during the performance and follow the rules on photography given by staff.

Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to the Şeb-i Arus ceremonies in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.