Nicosia Hosts the 14th International Folk Dance Festival

The 14th International Folk Dance Festival is underway in Nicosia. The celebration began with a parade, which moved from Kemal Ünal Street to Kızılbaş Park.

The opening ceremony was attended by the Mayor of the Turkish Municipality of Nicosia (LTB), Mehmet Harmancı, members of the municipal council, and folk dance groups from guest countries, including Bulgaria, Italy (Sicily), North Macedonia, Mexico, Romania, and Turkey.

Following the parade, the festival activities continued at the Kızılbaş amphitheater.

During his speech, LTB President Mehmet Harmancı noted that this year's festival marks its return after a five-year break. The festival was last held in 2019, and the tradition was interrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the earthquake in Turkey. The Kızılbaş Park project was specially implemented to revive the festival in the city.

President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Ersin Tatar, also addressed the festival participants. He emphasized that bringing together different cultures at the festival should serve as a message to the world.

The President highlighted that the Turkish Cypriot people, with their unique culture, identity, and traditions, have shown that they are part of the international community and continue to preserve their folklore and heritage with determination and dedication.

The festival will conclude on September 1, which is celebrated as World Peace Day.