The 3rd Traditional Turkish Festival in Chicago, Illinois, ended with a large turnout. Approximately 15,000 people attended the two-day event at the Tinley Park Convention Center.
Turkey's Consul General in Chicago, Tahir Bora Atataner, along with academics and civil society representatives, attended the opening ceremony. Consul General Atataner said such events strengthen cultural ties between Turkey and the US.
Mayor Declares Turkish Heritage Month
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, in a video message to the festival, praised the contributions of the Turkish American community to the city. Johnson officially declared August as 'Turkish Heritage Month,' emphasizing that the Turkish community is an integral part of Chicago's social fabric.
Culture, Arts, and Academia Together
The festival hosted cultural, artistic, and academic events. Halil Demir, Chair of the Festival's Conference and Cultural Heritage Committee, noted that the event is growing each year and that its main goal is to introduce Turkish culture, history, and values to American society.
During academic seminars and conferences held as part of the festival, experts offered assessments on Turkey's history, culture, and contemporary issues.
Delicacies and Performances Take Center Stage
Traditional gözleme, wood-fired döner, baklava, and Turkish coffee cooked in sand attracted great interest at the food stalls. Long queues formed in front of the stalls throughout the day.
Folk dance performances, the Karagöz and Hacivat shadow play, a Mevlevi dervishes performance, and children's activities were also appreciated. Nearly 10,000 people attended the first day of the festival, while thousands more joined on the second day for concerts and talks.
