Organized by Keçiören Municipality, a member of the Union of Turkish World Municipalities (TDBB), the 2nd International Keçiören Turkic World Festival took place over three days, from 25 to 27 July 2025, at Kalaba City Square, creating a colorful and lively atmosphere.
The program featured traditional games such as aşık atma (knucklebone throwing), stage performances by Nogai Turks and artists from the Keçiören Municipality Conservatory, as well as folkloric dance groups from Bitlis and Bilecik, the Shusha artist group, and performance teams from various Turkic republics.
At the closing ceremony, Keçiören Mayor Mesut Özarslan commemorated the martyrs who lost their lives fighting forest fires and said: “Today, we are not just witnessing a festival – we are witnessing a heartfelt gathering of kindred spirits. The collective conscience, voice, and soul of the great Turkish nation – which has shaped Turkish history for thousands of years – echo here today. The breath that melted iron mountains and emerged from Ergenekon centuries ago has become our breath today at Kalaba Square.”
At the end of the program, performance groups from various parts of the Turkic world took the stage, with soloists singing regional folk songs and melodies. Groups from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Crimean Tatars, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and Uzbekistan mesmerized the audience with their cultural performances.
Children were treated to popcorn and cotton candy, while Uzbek pilaf and ayran were served to the attendees.
The three-day event concluded with a group photo session.
