The 15th Date Festival, organized by the Lefke Municipality and the Lefke Tourism Association with the theme “The Essence of Cyprus,” was held on Sunday with a series of vibrant events.
The festivities began with a colourful parade, marking the start of the annual celebration.
Lefke Mayor Aziz Kaya, in his opening remarks, emphasized the festival’s tradition of being inaugurated by producers rather than politicians, reflecting its focus on local craftsmanship.
He also wished for a profitable season, given the high date yield this year.
Lefke Tourism Association President Hasan Karlıtaş highlighted the festival as an excellent example of local government and civil society collaboration, aiming to promote dates as a tourist attraction and enhance the area’s green rural tourism appeal.
The festival featured dance performances, a Cypriot Culture Street showcasing various traditional crafts, and demonstrations on making goods from dates, such as Paluze (pudding) and Sucuk (sweet candy).
Additionally, crafts like chair weaving, Lefkara lace, calico, and handcrafted brooms were displayed, along with stalls selling date-based products, traditional Cypriot foods, and handmade items.
Visitors enjoyed exhibitions, including Aktürk Pilancı’s “Children of the Forest – Mouflon” and a classic car display by the Güzelyurt Classic Car Association.
President Ersin Tatar also attended the event, watching performances, visiting stands, and engaging with citizens in celebration of Lefke’s cultural heritage.
