The 33rd International Muğla Culture and Art Festival Kicked Off in Menteşe
Opening its doors for the 33rd time this year in Muğla, the international culture and art festival will continue for four days with various events, folk dances, and concerts.
Organized in cooperation with the Muğla Metropolitan Municipality and the Menteşe Municipality, the 33rd International Muğla Culture and Art Festival started its four-day program with an opening ceremony held at the Menteşe City Square.
Opening Ceremony and Participants
The opening ceremony held at the Menteşe City Square was attended by local protocol, political party representatives, and numerous citizens.
Following a moment of silence and the singing of the National Anthem, colorful folk dance performances were staged accompanied by local folk songs.
Historical and Cultural Values
Menteşe Mayor Gonca Köksal Aras stated that the festival has been organized since 1984 and that the city's cultural riches are being preserved.
Köksal Aras noted that passing down the local lifestyle, traditions, customs, and culinary culture to future generations is of great importance.
Migration and Construction Pressure
Muğla Metropolitan Mayor Ahmet Aras emphasized that the city's historical, cultural, and natural values are facing pressure from migration and construction.
Aras conveyed that the Metropolitan Municipality will continue to support the efforts carried out to protect Menteşe's identity.
Festival Program and Events
Following the speeches, the festival fire was lit by protocol members and pigeons were released as a symbol of peace.
The four-day organization opened its doors to art lovers with a concert commemorating Neşet Ertaş.