The 18th International Tourism Cartoon Competition has officially opened for entries, inviting amateur and professional cartoonists from around the world to participate in its 2026 edition. This year’s competition celebrates the theme “Being a Tourist in Cappadocia”, encouraging artists to capture one of Türkiye’s most iconic travel destinations through the universal language of cartoon art.
Held annually, the competition highlights tourism, culture, and travel through humorous illustration while bringing together artists from different countries. The 2026 edition places a special focus on “Hot Air Balloon Tourism in Cappadocia,” one of the region’s most recognizable attractions.
Theme
Participants are invited to create cartoons inspired by one or both of the following themes:
- Being a Tourist in Cappadocia
- Hot Air Balloon Tourism in Cappadocia
The competition welcomes original interpretations that reflect the cultural, historical, and natural richness of Cappadocia with creativity and humor.
Who Can Participate?
The competition is open to amateur and professional cartoonists worldwide.
Each participant may submit up to three cartoons.
Submission Guidelines
- A maximum of three entries may be submitted.
- Cartoons may be hand-drawn or digitally created by the artist.
- Color and black-and-white works are both accepted.
- Previously published cartoons are eligible.
- Previously awarded cartoons are not accepted.
- Artificial intelligence (AI)-generated artworks are not eligible for the competition.
- The drawing technique is entirely free.
Competition Categories
The competition features two divisions:
Adult Category
Open to cartoonists aged 17 and above.
Young Category
Open to cartoonists aged 16 and under.
Participants should indicate the appropriate category when submitting their entries.
Awards
The Adult Category includes:
- Grand Award
- Second Award
- Third Award
- Professor Atila Özer Recognition Award
- Saffet Yatağan Recognition Award
The Young Category includes:
- Grand Award
- Second Award
- Third Award
Award winners will receive a five-day full-board stay for two people in Cappadocia, including a hot air balloon flight provided by Cappadocia Voyager Balloons, along with commemorative plaques and award certificates.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Submission Deadline | 31 December 2026 |
| Pre-selection Meeting | 17 January 2027 |
| Finalists Announced | 24–31 January 2027 |
| Winners Announced | April 2027 |
| Award Ceremony | November 2027 |
How to Submit
Entries may be submitted by post or email.
Postal Address
Nazmi KOZAK
P.O. Box 87
06444 Yenişehir
Ankara, Türkiye
Participants are also required to complete the official application form. Entries submitted without the completed form will not be evaluated.
Originality Remains a Core Principle
The competition continues to emphasize originality and artistic integrity. According to the official regulations, artworks created using artificial intelligence (AI) are not accepted, reinforcing the event’s commitment to authentic creative expression.
Recognized as one of the established international competitions dedicated to tourism-themed cartoon art, the 18th International Tourism Cartoon Competition offers artists an opportunity to showcase their creativity while celebrating the landscapes, culture, and travel experiences of Cappadocia through visual humor.
Official Information
Competition: 18th International Tourism Cartoon Competition 2026
Theme: Being a Tourist in Cappadocia / Hot Air Balloon Tourism in Cappadocia
Submission Deadline: 31 December 2026
Contact: tourismcartoon@gmail.com
Share this content:
Discover more from Feridun Demir
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
