I wanted to share a few personal experiences with festivals here in North Cyprus. Perhaps the closest analogy would be with a County Fair in Europe or North America. But there are some differences: No traveling midway with twenty rides is set-up at the heart of the festival; no carnival barkers or house of mirrors. In fact, some don’t really have rides at all; except for the donkeys.
I imagine these festivals are more akin to what a County Fair was like 150 years ago. There are tables where locals sell home-made crafts and of course, lots of good food. You’ll also find traditional dancing and music (all kinds). This is a real community affair.
Often these festivals have a theme. One nearby village has a eco-festival. My local village, İskele, has an international festival. The expats will dress in traditional clothing from their country and also set-up tables to sell foods found back home. I’m sure over the next couple of years Iranian and Russian food will be added to the dishes from the UK and North Cyprus. One I like is the collage students from Africa will also set-up a food table. Of course, dancing, local crafts, and a couple of carnival rides are also available.
I think most villages have festivals. Some of these are intended for the local village and are not promoted in other languages. Others are major events drawing thousands over a week. They are held during Spring & Fall (Autumn) when the weather is pleasant. Evenings are most popular with glowing lights and flags strung across cobble streets.
Two weekends ago I wanted to go to a honey festival. It was to be held in a small, nearby village. After a bit of driving around, I never did find it. That was alright, it was a pleasant trip through the countryside to some places I had never seen before. As is said, some are major events and some are a few tables with honey.
While there are festivals held in most villages, here are a few of the biggest events:
- International Bellapais Music Festival: This event usually takes place in the Bellapais Abbey, a historic monastery located near Kyrenia, during the summer months. The festival features a diverse range of musical performances, including classical music concerts and recitals.
- Iskele International Folk Dance Festival: Held in the town of Iskele, this festival celebrates traditional folk dances from around the world. It typically takes place in the summer and includes colorful performances by various international dance groups.
- North Cyprus Olive Festival: Celebrating the region's rich olive-growing heritage, this festival highlights the cultural and culinary significance of olives. It often includes olive oil tastings, traditional food stalls, and cultural events. The dates can vary, but it's usually held in the fall.
- International Famagusta Art and Culture Festival: This festival, held in Famagusta, showcases various forms of art, including visual arts, music, and theater. It aims to promote cultural exchange and appreciation of different art forms. The dates may vary, but it's often held during the summer months.
Up-to-date information about festivals can be obtained from the links below:
http://www.magusa.org/component/k2/itemlist/category/8-etkinlik-ve-festivaller.html
https://tr-tr.facebook.com/kktcfestivalleri/
http://www.girnebelediyesi.com/festivaller
