Şarkikaraağaç Kızıldağ Halva Festival and Culture – Art Festival
Location: Şarkikaraağaç, Turkey
Director: E.M. & O.S. & WOFA
Application Deadline: 15 March, 2026
INVITATION
We invite you to join us in the charming town of Şarkikaraağaç, Turkey, for an international cultural festival taking place from 16–20 July 2026.
Nestled near the beautiful Kızıldağ National Park and Lake Eğirdir, Şarkikaraağaç offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural traditions. Known for its famous Halva and warm hospitality, the town provides an authentic and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for cultural celebration and artistic exchange.
FESTIVAL WELCOMES
The festival is open to folk dance and cultural groups of all ages.
GENERAL RULES
Performances should last between 6 and 8 minutes. Live music is preferred, while recorded music is also acceptable. Each group must prepare a minimum of two different performances. All groups are required to bring their national flag, and each participating country must bring three gifts for cultural exchange.
The application must include a minimum of six digital group photos, a short group description, and performance videos or links with descriptions.
Transport support is provided by the organizers. Groups arriving by air will receive free airport transfers from Antalya or Ankara Airport. Groups arriving by bus will receive support in the form of 200 liters of diesel fuel.
A deposit is required to confirm participation. The remaining balance is due 15 days before the festival or upon arrival. The final application and deposit deadline is 15 March 2025.
ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation is provided in high-quality hostels in Şarkikaraağaç.
The participation fee is 50 EUR per person and includes 4 nights with full board, covering three meals per day.
Rooms are arranged with two, three, or four beds and include private bathrooms. International health insurance is the responsibility of each participant.
INCLUDED BY ORGANIZERS
The package includes a special festival gift pack for each participant, consisting of an attendance festival hat, t-shirt, and certificate, as well as full promotion and organizational support.
PROGRAM
Day 1 – Thursday, 16 July
10:00 Arrival in Şarkikaraağaç and check-in at the accommodation (free airport transfers provided)
Afternoon free time to settle in
Dinner
Evening welcome meeting
Day 2 – Friday, 17 July
Breakfast
Daytime free for exploration, local interaction, or rehearsal
Lunch and dinner
Evening cultural workshop or community event
Day 3 – Saturday, 18 July
Breakfast
Daytime participation in festival opening or local traditions
Lunch and dinner
21:00 Main Festival Performance Evening
Day 4 – Sunday, 19 July
Breakfast
Daytime festival activities and Halva celebration events
Lunch and dinner
Evening final celebration and farewell party
Day 5 – Monday, 20 July
Breakfast
12:00 Check-out and departure
EXCURSIONS
Optional activities will be offered, including local tours highlighting Şarkikaraağaç’s cultural heritage and visits to nearby natural attractions.
