Bridging Two Worlds
Turkish-American Cultural Exchange Since 1976
About Us
Nearly Five Decades of Service
TThe Turkish American Association of North Texas (TURANT) stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of cultural preservation and community building. Since our founding in 1976, we have been dedicated to creating a home away from home for Turkish-Americans while serving as a bridge between Turkish and American cultures.
Our organization was born from the vision of Turkish immigrants who recognized the importance of maintaining cultural ties while embracing their new American identity. They understood that preserving language, traditions, and customs was not just about looking back, but about providing a foundation for future generations.
Our programs span multiple generations, offering Turkish language classes for children, cultural workshops for families, and social events that bring together young and old. We believe that cultural heritage is a living tradition, one that must be actively nurtured and shared.
Today, TURANT serves over 500 member families across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We host more than 50 annual events, from cultural celebrations and educational programs to community gatherings and youth activities. Each event is designed to strengthen bonds within our community while sharing Turkish culture with our broader North Texas neighbors.
Through partnerships with local schools, cultural institutions, and civic organizations, we work to promote understanding and appreciation of Turkish culture. Our educational initiatives introduce thousands of North Texans to Turkish history, art, music, and cuisine each year.
TURANT is more than an organization—it's a home for Turkish culture in the heart of Texas, where traditions are preserved and new friendships are forged.
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, TURANT relies on the support of our members and donors to continue our mission. Every contribution helps us preserve cultural heritage, support community programs, and build bridges of understanding.
Looking forward, we remain committed to our founding vision: creating a vibrant Turkish-American community that honors its heritage while contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of North Texas. We invite you to join us in this important work.
Whether you're Turkish-American, have Turkish heritage, or simply appreciate Turkish culture, TURANT welcomes you. Together, we celebrate the past, embrace the present, and build a future where cultural diversity strengthens our community.
Turkish-American families gathering at a TURANT cultural celebration in Dallas
Section III — Cultural Understanding Through Action
Bridging Communities
TURANT serves as a vital bridge between Turkish and American cultures in North Texas. Through our comprehensive programs, we preserve Turkish heritage, foster cross-cultural understanding, and build lasting connections that strengthen both communities. Our mission is rooted in the belief that cultural exchange enriches lives and creates a more unified, compassionate society.
Cultural Programs
Cultural Heritage
Preserving and celebrating Turkish traditions, language, and customs for future generations.
Community Building
Creating spaces for Turkish-Americans to connect, support, and grow together.
Educational Exchange
Promoting mutual understanding through education and cultural dialogue.
Events Calendar
Community Events
Upcoming & Featured
FEATURED
MAR 15, 2025
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Turkish Heritage Festival 2025
Join us for our largest annual celebration featuring traditional music, dance performances, authentic Turkish cuisine, artisan markets, and cultural exhibitions. Special guest performances from Istanbul.
AT: Dallas Convention Center
Featured Event
FEB 28, 2025
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Turkish Language Workshop
Beginner-friendly Turkish language workshop focusing on conversational skills and cultural context.
AT: TURANT Community Center
Education Program
FEATURED
APR 20, 2025
7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Annual Gala Dinner
Elegant evening celebrating Turkish-American achievements with keynote speakers, awards ceremony, and traditional entertainment.
AT: Hilton Anatole
Annual Gala
EVERY SAT
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Youth Soccer League
Weekly soccer program for youth ages 6-16, promoting teamwork and community.
AT: Klyde Warren Park
Youth Programs
MAR 8, 2025
7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Turkish Film Night
Screening of acclaimed Turkish cinema with English subtitles, followed by discussion.
AT: Angelika Film Center
Cultural Events
MAR 22, 2025
5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Cooking Class: Ottoman Cuisine
Hands-on cooking class exploring traditional Ottoman recipes and culinary techniques.
AT: Central Market Cooking School
Culinary Arts
EVERY FRI
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Community Coffee Hour
Informal weekly gathering for community members to connect over Turkish coffee and conversation.
AT: TURANT Community Center
Community
FEB 15, 2025
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Turkish History Lecture Series
Monthly lecture series featuring scholars discussing Turkish history, from Ottoman Empire to modern Turkey.
AT: SMU Campus
Education
MAR 10, 2025
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Children's Art Workshop
Creative workshop teaching children traditional Turkish art forms including ebru (marbling) and calligraphy.
AT: Dallas Museum of Art
Youth Programs
APR 5, 2025
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Business Networking Mixer
Professional networking event connecting Turkish-American business owners and entrepreneurs.
AT: The Joule Hotel
Professional Development
FEATURED
MAY 12, 2025
8:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Traditional Music Concert
Live performance of classical Turkish music featuring renowned musicians from Ankara.
AT: Meyerson Symphony Center
Cultural Events
Editorial
A Shared Story
TURANT honors the Turkish people who have made North Texas their home and celebrates the enduring friendship between Turkey and the United States. Through cultural exchange, education, and community engagement, we build bridges that connect our shared values and aspirations.