Thousands Flock to Marmaraereğlisi for Historic Perinthos FolkFest

The first-ever Perinthos FolkFest International Folk Dance Festival in Marmaraereğlisi brought together approximately 700 dancers from 8 countries. The event, part of Mayor Mustafa Onur Bozkurter's vision of making Marmaraereğlisi a 'Festival City', drew an unprecedented crowd to the district. The festival began with a parade, turning the town center, coastline, and beaches into a sea of people. Residents watched the performances from their balconies, enjoying a memorable evening filled with colorful shows by dancers from different parts of the world. Teams from Montenegro, Georgia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Colombia, Romania, and Bulgaria showcased their cultures and traditional dances on stage.

In his opening speech, Mayor Bozkurter emphasized that the festival was more than just a cultural event. 'Tonight, on the shores of the Sea of Marmara, on these ancient lands bearing the traces of thousands of years of history, we are not just opening a festival. Tonight, we see once again that although languages differ, emotions are the same; although borders differ, humanity meets on common values,' he said. Greeting guests from 8 countries in their own languages, Bozkurter received great applause. He also delivered a speech in English, promoting Marmaraereğlisi's historical, cultural, and touristic values.

After the folk dance performances, Rumeli Orhan and Kemal took the stage, adding a special touch to the night with their popular songs. Thousands of citizens sang along, creating a festive atmosphere. The night was filled with friendship, brotherhood, and cultural sharing, as the crowd experienced the festival's joy together. Organized by the Marmaraereğlisi Municipality, Perinthos FolkFest ended, leaving participants with colorful memories and stories of friendship that will last for years.

Mayor Bozkurter noted that Marmaraereğlisi has historically been a meeting point of civilizations. He stated that the district, carrying the legacy of the ancient city of Perinthos, continues to be a center of cultures, friendship, and solidarity. Highlighting that Rumelian and Balkan culture is one of the most important values of Marmaraereğlisi, Bozkurter emphasized that the cultural heritage brought by families who migrated from the Balkans years ago shapes the district's identity today. Concluding his speech with Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's motto 'Peace at home, peace in the world,' Bozkurter expressed his hope that Perinthos FolkFest would continue to be a language of friendship, brotherhood, and peace.

Mayor M. Onur Bozkurter not only brought different cultures together but also showcased Marmaraereğlisi's potential in culture, arts, and tourism. The event, attended by thousands, made a significant contribution to the district's social and cultural life, once again proving that Marmaraereğlisi is a strong center capable of hosting international events. The festival is seen as an important step towards the district becoming a festival city.