# Karakucak wrestling festivals in Turkey

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/karakucak-wrestling-festivals-in-turkey
> Updated: 2026-08-28T10:47:39.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2.

Traditional Karakucak wrestling festivals are being held in various Turkish districts to preserve regional cultural heritage.

In Afşin, the 48th Eshab-ı Kehf Culture and Karakucak Wrestling Festival took place at the Ergün Ertekin Grass Wrestling Field. The event, supported by local administration, honors a long-standing tradition and celebrates historical wrestlers.

In the Darende district of Malatya, the 73rd Zengibar Karakucak Wrestling and Culture Festival was organized. This event included traditional archery, trap shooting, and food competitions, alongside a concert by singer Alişan that drew over 5,000 attendees. Local officials noted the festival's importance in passing traditions to future generations and its alignment with August 30 Victory Day commemorations.

## Claims

- Darende Mayor Alican Bozkurt stated the 73rd festival serves as an event for unity and togetherness. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Singer Alişan performed a concert in Darende despite heavy rain. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The 73rd Zengibar Karakucak Wrestling and Culture Festival is being held in the Darende district of Malatya. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Osman Boyraz attended the festival. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- More than 5,000 people attended the concert in the rain. (corroborated by 2 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-08-28: Darende hosts 73rd Zengibar Karakucak Wrestling and Culture Festival

The 73rd Zengibar Karakucak Wrestling and Culture Festival in Darende, Malatya, features traditional sports and a large concert by Alişan, which drew thousands despite heavy rain.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/darende-hosts-73rd-zengibar-karakucak-wrestling-and-culture-festival

### 2026-08-23: Afşin hosts 48th Eshab-ı Kehf Culture and Karakucak Wrestling Festival

The 48th Eshab-ı Kehf Culture and Karakucak Wrestling Festival is taking place in Afşin, celebrating nearly 50 years of traditional wrestling and local cultural heritage.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/afin-hosts-48th-eshab-kehf-culture-and-karakucak-wrestling-festival

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Cite as: Karakucak wrestling festivals in Turkey. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/karakucak-wrestling-festivals-in-turkey