Manisa and Samsun districts schedule oil wrestling festivals for June‑July 2026

The Manisa Metropolitan Municipality will organize the Yuntdağı Oil Wrestling Festival from 5 – 7 June 2026 at the Ortaköy Wrestling Field. The three‑day event, part of the CW Enerji Turkey Oil Wrestling League’s eight‑stage calendar, expects about 540 wrestlers from across Turkey. Mayor Besim Dutlulu said the festival preserves cultural heritage and promotes Manisa, and municipal stalls will serve food for spectators.

In the Black Sea province of Samsun, the Salıpazarı District Municipality is preparing for the second edition of its Oil Pehlivan Wrestling Festival on 18 July 2026. Mayor Refaettin Karaca highlighted the event’s aim to keep the traditional sport alive, attract many head wrestlers from different regions, and boost the district’s visibility. Preparations include modernising the wrestling arena, arranging tribunes, transport and safety measures, and inviting the public to attend.

Both festivals are part of Turkey’s effort to sustain the historic yağlı güreş tradition, drawing participants and audiences from multiple provinces.