Salihli hosts 9th Keşkek and Cirit Festival to celebrate Selendi culture

The 9th Keşkek and Cirit Festival was held in the Salihli district of Manisa, organized through a collaboration between the Manisa Metropolitan Municipality, Salihli Municipality, and the Selendili Association (SEL-DER).

The event, held at the Gümüşçayı Event Area, began with a parade and featured traditional activities including cirit (equestrian games), folk dances, and stands showcasing local Selendi delicacies. Attendees included Manisa Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Besim Dutlulu, Yeni Parti Manisa Deputy Ahmet Vehbi Bakırlıoğlu, and SEL-DER President Berkhan Bayşeker.

During the festival, Mayor Dutlulu emphasized the importance of preserving cultural values and stated that the municipality aims to support all associations rather than just specific groups. SEL-DER President Bayşeker noted that cirit symbolizes courage and unity, while keşkek represents sharing and abundance.