Turkish municipalities launch free summer cultural and sport programs for children

Municipalities across Turkey are running a series of free summer activities aimed at children and families. Gebze Municipality held a cultural evening at Eskișihar Castle featuring a science show and a concert by child performer Onur Erol. Karşıyaka Municipality promoted its half‑Olympic indoor pool with swimming courses for all ages, while Antalya’s Muratpaşa district offered free tennis lessons for 7‑14‑year‑olds. Konya Büyükşehir Belediyesi opened registrations for its online women‑only sport education programme, serving about 3,000 participants in live video sessions and dietitian support. Gaziantep Büyükşehir Belediyesi’s summer schools attracted 65,000 youngsters aged 5‑18, covering more than 100 sport and skill branches. Smaller towns such as Karabük, Buca and Kütahya organised free fairy‑tale evenings, pilates, zumba and religious‑cultural festivals. Officials emphasized that the events are free, aim to foster active lifestyles, cultural participation and personal development, and are open to all residents.