The 61st Mehmetçik Grape Festival, one of the largest village festivals in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) will take place from August 4 to 13, the town’s Mayor Fatma Çimen Tuğlu announced at a press conference on Tuesday.
Speaking at the Municipalities Union, Tuğlu shared information about the festival program.
She emphasized the importance of preserving and passing down customs, traditions, and cultural richness as a way for societies to maintain their identities.
In this context, she highlighted the significance of festivals.
Tuğlu stated that the festival, which carries the name and spirit of the region’s most unique product, grapes, and the delicacies derived from grapes, not only caters to the artistic and cultural needs of the people but also significantly contributes to promoting the region’s products and culture.
She also announced that a significant part of the events will take place at the festival grounds in the town square with other important sports and cultural activities also taking place at the Bafra Municipal Beach.
Tuğlu acknowledged the serious economic difficulties of the current period and stressed the importance of using resources most efficiently as a fundamental responsibility.
She mentioned that the concert program will feature artists such as Ferhat Göçer from Türkiye, as well as, Ahmet Evan, Grup SOS, Grup Frekans, Grup Rota, İpek Amber, and Grup Otantik from the TRNC.
Tuğlu emphasized that the festival plays a vital role as a catalyst for the municipality, which is a member of Cittaslow, in opening its doors to the world.