Turkish municipalities launch summer arts and cultural programs for children

Municipalities across Turkey are running a series of summer activities aimed at children and families. In Antalya, Muratpaşa Belediyesi’s Değirmenönü Course Center is offering a month‑long bağlama (Turkish lute) program for 48 youngsters aged 7‑18, alongside courses in folk dance, drama, choir and various instruments. In the Aegean town of Dikili, the local council will host four evenings of concerts, folk‑dance shows and talks from July 20‑23 at the 75 Year Park. Mersin’s Büyükşehir Belediyesi has begun its “Köy Bizim Şenlik Bizim” series in rural neighborhoods, featuring face‑painting, talent workshops, traditional games and Karagöz‑Hacivat performances. Ankara’s Altındağ Youth Center celebrated its fourth year with a 40‑member children’s orchestra concert, while Izmir’s Büyükşehir Belediyesi organized an inter‑generational outing to Sasalı Natural Life Park for about 200 participants. The Atatürk Children’s Natural Life Park in Ankara attracted roughly 50 000 visitors in its first week, providing green space and recreation for families. These initiatives reflect a nationwide effort by local governments to provide cultural, musical and recreational opportunities during the summer holidays.