August 18, 2004
Turks Share Their Crossroads of Culture with Nation’s Capital
Washington, D.C. – Americans and Turkish-Americans alike are expected to turn out in droves this September 19th to celebrate the first Turkish festival held in Washington, D.C. The festival drew in 6,000 visitors last year when it made its debut in Cabin John Park in Maryland. Organizers expect a larger crowd this year due to the line-up of exciting activities, delicious cuisine, and the event’s prime location in the heart of the nation’s capital, just minutes away from the metro. It will take place on Freedom Plaza and on Pennsylvania Avenue between 13th and 14th Streets on Sunday, September 19.
The festival will feature activities and exhibits for all ages and interests. Highlights include performances by a popular musical group from Istanbul, Turkey, the Turkish Music and Choral Society, and traditional folk dancers. The event will also have numerous children’s activities and exhibits on paper marbling, calligraphy, miniature renderings, glass fusion, oil painting, carpet weaving, and ceramics.
The Turkish Recreational and Cultural Organization (TURCO) is organizing the event with help from the American-Turkish Association of Washington DC (ATA-DC), the Assembly of American Turkish Association (ATAA), and the American, Turkish Friendship Association (ATFA). TURCO is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization created to foster a greater awareness of Turkish culture and to promote friendship between the Turkish and American communities. Fatih Culha, TURCO’s founder and president, said the 2003 event helped boost awareness about Turkey’s rich culture. “The impact of the Turkish festival on those who visited from the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area is still felt and remembered today,” Culha said.
What: 2nd Annual Turkish Festival: Bridging the American and Turkish Cultures
When: Sunday, September 19, 2004, 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Where: Freedom Plaza, Pennsylvania Avenue between 13th and 14th, Washington, DC
Free Admission
For more information please visit www.turkishfestival.org.