Alanya Dances to the Beat of the World: Once again this year, Alanya has become a vibrant hub of culture and the arts.
Organized in cooperation with Alanya Municipality, ALTAV (Alanya Tourism and Promotion Foundation), and YESAK (Yayla Dance and Art Club), the 2nd International Folk Dance and Music Festival kicked off with great enthusiasm, hosting 3,250 dancers from 9 different countries. The opening parade turned the city into a spectacular cultural feast.
The opening event began with a grand parade, starting at the Atatürk Monument and proceeding along İskele Street, concluding behind the Old Municipality Building. Participants marched to the sounds of traditional music and national anthems, wearing their cultural attire and waving their countries’ flags, promoting unity and friendship.
Alanya Dances to the Beat of the World:
Eğlence dolu 2. Alanya Uluslararası Halk Dansları ve Müzik Festivalimiz 17-18 Mayıs tarihlerinde saat 19.30’da İskele Şelale önünde devam edecek. Tüm halkımız; renkli kostümler, yöresel ezgiler ve danslarla dolu bu kültür şölenine davetlidir. pic.twitter.com/S2iUfXGBp8
— Alanya Belediyesi (@ALANYABLD) May 14, 2025
Locals watching from balconies, sidewalks, and storefronts applauded and joined the festive atmosphere with great excitement.
Following the parade, the festival continued at the Alanya Open-Air Theater with an official opening ceremony attended by Alanya Deputy Mayor Murat Levent Koçak. CHP Alanya District President Bülent Kandemir, and City Council Members Ahmet Top and Asrın Ateşoğlu. Along with 850 dancers from Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Georgia, and Turkey.
The theater quickly filled up as eager spectators arrived early to secure their seats and witness the stunning performances.
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Koçak: “This Festival Reflects Alanya’s Cultural Wealth” 🌞
In his opening remarks, Deputy Mayor Murat Levent Koçak conveyed greetings from Mayor Osman Tarık Özçelik and stated:
“Welcome to Alanya, the city where the sun always smiles. Our festival has begun with incredible energy and continues to flourish thanks to the beauty and joy you all bring. Alanya has always embraced culture, diversity, and art. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone involved and wish you a wonderful festival experience.”
Cultures United on Stage: Breathtaking Performances 💃🌍
The first night of the festival was a mesmerizing experience as performers from Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Georgia. And Turkey graced the stage with their unique folk dances and music. Each performance reflected deep-rooted traditions and captivated the audience, who responded with standing ovations and thunderous applause.
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The Celebration Continues 🎭📅
The International Folk Dance and Music Festival will resume on Wednesday, May 14 at 19:30 at the Alanya Open-Air Theater. The cultural extravaganza will reach its grand finale on May 17-18 with performances at Iskele Waterfall Square. Also starting at 19:30.
Alanya is not only a city of tourism and agriculture but also a land of rich social and cultural heritage. Since ancient times, it has been a favorite destination for kings and queens.
This ancient city continues to preserve and celebrate its deep-rooted traditions even today. With nearly nine months of sunshine each year, living in Alanya is truly a privilege. ☀️👑🌴
