Victory Day, or Zafer Bayramı, is celebrated annually in Turkey on August 30th to commemorate the decisive victory of the Turkish forces in the Battle of Dumlupınar during the Turkish War of Independence. This battle, which took place between August 26 and August 30, 1922, marked the final turning point in the war, leading to the eventual defeat of the Greek army and securing the independence of Turkey.

The victory was significant not only for military reasons but also for the birth of the modern Turkish Republic. The commander-in-chief of the Turkish forces, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who would later become the founding father of the Republic, led the Turkish army to victory. The success in the Battle of Dumlupınar effectively ended the foreign occupation in Anatolia and paved the way for the establishment of the Republic of Turkey on October 29, 1923.

Victory Day is a national holiday in Turkey, and it is marked with various celebrations, including military parades, ceremonies, and patriotic events. The day honors the sacrifices of the soldiers who fought for the independence of the country, and it also serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and national sovereignty.

Throughout Turkey, flags are flown, and people gather in public places to celebrate the legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and the nation's victory. The day is also a symbol of Turkish resilience and the determination to protect national independence at all costs.

On July 15, 2016, Turkey faced a violent and unprecedented coup attempt aimed at overthrowing the country’s democratically elected government. A faction within the Turkish Armed Forces attempted to take control of key state institutions, including military bases, media channels, and government buildings.

The attempt began in the evening when tanks and soldiers blocked major roads and bridges in Istanbul and Ankara. Fighter jets and helicopters flew low over the cities, and clashes broke out in several areas. The parliament building was bombed, and communication channels were disrupted. In response, citizens took to the streets in large numbers, standing against the military forces involved in the coup.

By the early hours of July 16, the coup attempt had been largely suppressed thanks to public resistance and the efforts of loyal security forces. More than 250 people lost their lives, and over 2,000 were injured during the events. Following the failed attempt, a state of emergency was declared, and a wide-scale investigation was launched to identify those responsible.

Today, July 15 is commemorated in Turkey as Democracy and National Unity Day, honoring the bravery and determination of the people who defended the nation’s democratic institutions and unity.

During Hıdırellez, people make wishes by writing them on paper and hanging them on trees. Another tradition is jumping over a fire, which is said to bring good luck. People go outside, have picnics, sing songs, and dance. These celebrations bring people together and help them connect with nature.

Hıdırellez is an important cultural event in Turkey. It is a time for hope, new beginnings, and togetherness.

Festival boyunca sema törenleri, konserler, sergiler ve paneller gibi birçok etkinlik düzenlenir. Bu etkinlikler, Mevlana'nın öğretilerini ve felsefesini anlamaya ve hatırlamaya yardımcı olur.

Festivalin Önemli Unsurları:

• Sema Törenleri: Sema, Mevlevi dervişlerinin Allah'a ulaşmak için yaptıkları mistik bir danstır. Bu törenler, festivalin en önemli ve etkileyici etkinliklerinden biridir.

• Mevlana'nın Öğretileri: Festival boyunca Mevlana'nın sevgi, hoşgörü ve birlik gibi evrensel mesajları hatırlatılır.

• Kültürel Etkinlikler: Konserler, sergiler ve paneller gibi etkinlikler, Mevlana'nın eserlerini ve felsefesini farklı sanat dallarıyla birleştirir.

Mevlana Festivali, sadece bir anma töreni değil, aynı zamanda farklı kültürlerden insanların bir araya geldiği ve Mevlana'nın öğretileriyle ilham bulduğu bir buluşma noktasıdır.

Many events such as sema ceremonies, concerts, exhibitions and panels are organized throughout the festival. These events help to understand and remember Mevlana's teachings and philosophy.

Important Elements of the Festival:

•Sema Ceremonies: Sema is a mystical dance performed by Mevlevi dervishes to reach Allah. These ceremonies are one of the most important and impressive events of the festival.

•Mevlana's Teachings: Throughout the festival, Mevlana's universal messages of love, tolerance and unity are reminded.

•Cultural Events: Events such as concerts, exhibitions and panels combine Mevlana's works and philosophy with different branches of art.

The Mevlana Festival is not only a commemoration ceremony, but also a meeting point where people from different cultures come together and find inspiration in Mevlana's teachings.

Family members gather happily and peacefully as they share the sacrificial meat. The table is filled with baklava, skewered kebabs, rice, and various traditional dishes, reflecting the richness of Eid feasts. The presence of both elders and children emphasizes how the holiday strengthens intergenerational bonds.

This image perfectly captures the spirit of sharing and generosity, which is at the heart of Eid al-Adha. The holiday is not only a religious ritual but also a time to spend with loved ones, help those in need, and foster unity within the community.

Many people flock to pubs and bars, dancing and waiting for midnight. Fun costume parties are also quite common. People dress up in interesting costumes to add color to New Year's Eve. When midnight comes, the traditional song “Auld Lang Syne” is sung.

The British often prepare special dishes on New Year's Eve. Mince pies, Christmas pudding and traditional baked meat dishes are on the table. At midnight, the New Year is celebrated with a toast, usually champagne or prosecco.

There is also an old tradition in Scotland called “First-Footing”. According to this tradition, the first guest of the new year brings good luck and it is considered lucky if a dark-haired man knocks on the door first. In the first hours of the new year, people often celebrate the new year by visiting friends and family.

With the spread of Christianity, Samhain blended with All Hallows’ Eve, the night before All Saints' Day. Over time, it evolved into the Halloween we know today. In the UK, Halloween is widely celebrated, though not as much as in the US. People carve pumpkins, go trick-or-treating, and wear costumes ranging from spooky to funny. Haunted houses, horror films, and themed parties are also common.

Traditional Halloween foods in the UK include toffee apples, soul cakes, and pumpkin-based treats. Some older customs, like "guising" (an early form of trick-or-treating), are still practiced in parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland. While some people see Halloween as a fun holiday, others consider it too commercialized. However, its popularity continues to grow each year, with more decorations, events, and celebrations across the country.

History: In 1605, Guy Fawkes and several other participants planned to blow up the Parliament building in order to stage a coup against the government. However, Fawkes was caught and executed before he could carry out his plan.

Celebrations and Traditions: The most distinctive feature of Bonfire Night is the large fires. These fires symbolize the capture of Guy Fawkes and his failed plan. During the celebrations, a puppet or figure called "Guy" is made and thrown into the fire. There are also many colorful and noisy fireworks displays on Bonfire Night. In addition to these, songs, entertainment, food and drinks are also available on Bonfire Night.

Meaning of Bonfire Night: This night is not actually a celebration but also a day of giving thanks. The British celebrate the survival of the government.

* This is a holiday for Christians.

* They celebrate that Jesus came back to life.

* It happens in spring, around March or April.

* People often paint eggs and hide them for children to find.

2) Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt) – 40 Days After Easter:

* This day remembers when Jesus went up to heaven.

* It is 40 days after Easter, so it's usually in May.

* In some countries, it's a day off work.

3) Oktoberfest (Munich) – Late September - Early October:

* This is a big festival in Munich, Germany.

* People drink beer, eat German food, and have fun.

* It is from the end of September to the start of October.

* Lots of people visit from all over the world.

4) Berlinale (Berlin International Film Festival) – February:

* This is a famous movie festival in Berlin, Germany.

* They show movies from many countries.

* Famous actors and directors come to this festival.

* It happens in February.

* It is a very important film festival

2. Labor Day (Tag der Arbeit) – May 1
Labor Day, or Tag der Arbeit, is a public holiday in Germany on May 1. It celebrates workers' rights with parades and demonstrations, especially in big cities like Berlin. In some areas, people also celebrate Walpurgis Night on April 30 with bonfires and festivities to welcome spring.

3. St. Martin’s Day (Martinstag) – November 11
St. Martin’s Day honors St. Martin of Tours, known for his kindness. According to legend, he cut his cloak in half to share with a beggar. On this day, children walk in lantern parades (Laternenumzüge), singing songs. In some places, a person dressed as St. Martin leads the parade on horseback. Many families also eat Martinsgans (St. Martin’s goose), a traditional roasted goose dish.

4. Christmas Markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) – November-December
Germany is famous for its Weihnachtsmärkte (Christmas Markets), which open in late November and continue until Christmas. These markets offer festive decorations, handmade gifts, and delicious seasonal foods like Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Glühwein (mulled wine), and Bratwurst (sausages). Some of the most famous markets are in Nuremberg, Dresden, and Cologne.

This marks the first day of the year, a public holiday celebrated with parties, fireworks, and various traditions to welcome the new year.

Walpurgis Night (Walpurgisnacht) – April 30:

A traditional celebration marking the arrival of spring. People in some regions, especially in the Harz Mountains, light bonfires, wear costumes, and celebrate with festivities linked to old witchcraft and folklore.

German Unity Day (Tag der Deutschen Einheit) – October 3: Celebrates the reunification of Germany in 1990, after the fall of the Berlin Wall. It’s a national holiday with events, concerts, and fireworks, reflecting on the country’s reunification.

Rhine in Flames (Rhein in Flammen) – May-September: A series of events held along the Rhine River, featuring spectacular fireworks displays, light shows, and boat parades, celebrating the beauty of the river and its surroundings during the summer months.

What?: A festive pre-Lent celebration with parades, costumes, and parties.

Where?: Mainly in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

When?: February or early March, peaking on Rose Monday (Rosenmontag).

Main Activities:

Parades & Floats – Colorful processions with satire and music.

Costumes & Masks – Creative and humorous outfits.

Street Festivals & Parties – Music, dancing, and candy throwing.

Weiberfastnacht – Women symbolically "take over" towns.

2. Father’s Day (Vatertag) – Same as Ascension Day

What?: A day to honor fathers, celebrated with outdoor activities.

Where?: Germany.

When?: On Ascension Day, 40 days after Easter.

Traditions:

Men’s Outings (Herrentag) – Hiking, cycling, and social gatherings.

Beer & BBQ – Enjoyed in parks and beer gardens.

Handcarts (Bollerwagen) – Pulled with drinks and snacks.

3. Rose Monday (Rosenmontag) – Carnival’s Main Event

What?: The biggest day of Carnival, featuring grand parades.

Where?: Mainly in Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Mainz, Germany.

When?: The Monday before Ash Wednesday.

Traditions:

Parades & Satirical Floats

Candy Throwing (Kamelle)

Music, Dance & Costumes

4. Christmas Eve & Christmas (Weihnachten) – Dec 24-26

What?: A major holiday celebrating Christ’s birth.

When?: Dec 24 (Christmas Eve) to Dec 26 (Second Christmas Day).

Traditions:

Dec 24: Gift-giving, festive dinner, church services.

Dec 25-26: Family gatherings, special meals, relaxation.

Symbols: Christmas tree, candles, nativity scenes.

2.Maypole Festival (Maibaum) – On May 1st, communities celebrate spring by erecting a beautifully decorated maypole (Maibaum) in the town square. The festival features lively dances, music, and joyful gatherings.

3.Rose Festival (Rosenfest) – Held in June in regions known for rose cultivation, this festival includes colorful parades, floral decorations, and the crowning of the Rose Queen, making it a romantic and vibrant event.

4.Easter Bonfires (Osterfeuer) – On Easter Saturday, large bonfires are lit to symbolically drive away evil spirits and welcome spring. People gather around the fire, socialize, and enjoy this centuries-old tradition.

Good Friday, or Karfreitag, is a solemn Christian holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

KEY FEATURES:

DAY OF MOURNİNG: It is a quiet and reflective day, marked by prayers and church services.

FASTİNG AND ABSTİNENCE: Many Christians fast or avoid eating meat.

PUBLİC HOLİDAY: In countries like Germany, businesses and entertainment venues remain closed.

NO CHURCH BELLS: Church bells stay silent as a sign of mourning.

PASSİON PLAYS: Some communities reenact the events of Jesus’ crucifixion.

Pentecost (Pfingsten) – 50 Days After Easter

Pentecost, or Pfingsten in German, is a Christian holiday celebrated 50 days after Easter. It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, marking the birth of the Christian Church.

KEY FEATURES:

RELİGİOUS SİNCİFİNANCE: Churches hold special services, focusing on the Holy Spirit’s role in Christianity.

PUBLİC HOLİDAY: In many countries, including Germany, Pentecost Monday is a public holiday.

SYMBOLS OF FİRE AND WİND: Representing the Holy Spirit, these elements are often used in church decorations.

CONFİRMATİON CEREMONİES: Some Christian communities perform baptisms or confirmations.

FESTİVALS AND TRADİTİONS: In Germany and other regions, people celebrate with parades, outdoor events, and traditional customs.

Reformation Day (Reformationstag) – October 31

Reformation Day, or Reformationstag, is a Protestant Christian holiday celebrated on October 31. It marks the day in 1517 when Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the church door in Wittenberg, Germany, sparking the Protestant Reformation.

KEY FEATURES:

RELİGİOUS SİGNİFİCANCE: It commemorates the beginning of the Protestant movement, emphasizing faith, grace, and scripture.

PUBLİC HOLİDAY: In some German states, such as Saxony and Brandenburg, it is a public holiday.

CHURCH SERVİSES: Special services are held in Protestant churches, focusing on Luther’s teachings.

EDUCATİONAL EVENTS: Schools and communities organize lectures, discussions, and historical reenactments.

SYMBOLS OF RELİGİOUS FREEDOM: It highlights the importance of personal faith and the role of the Bible in Christianity.

Dürkheimer Wurstmarkt (Wine Festival) – September

The Dürkheimer Wurstmarkt is the world’s largest wine festival, held annually in Bad Dürkheim, Germany, in September. Despite its name, which means "sausage market," the festival is mainly known for its wine culture and traditional German celebrations.

KEY FEATURES:

WİNE TASTİNG: Features a wide variety of local wines from the Palatinate region.

FESTİVE ATMOSPHERE: Includes live music, folk performances, and carnival rides.

TRADİTİONAL FOOD: Serves sausages, pretzels, and other German specialties.

HİSTORİCAL ROOTS: Dates back over 600 years, making it one of Germany’s oldest festivals.

SOCİAL GATHERİNG: Attracts thousands of visitors from around the world.

Although it is an Irish holiday, many people in the United Kingdom also celebrate it. Cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester often have big parades and events. Many people wear green clothes, hats, or accessories. Green is the colour of Ireland and is linked to good luck and nature. The shamrock, a three-leaf plant, is a symbol of the day. It is said that St. Patrick used the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).

In the UK, Irish pubs and restaurants are usually very busy on this day. People enjoy traditional Irish music, dancing, and food. Some schools and community centres also organise activities to teach about Irish culture.

Even though it is not a public holiday in the UK, many people still join the celebrations. It is a day to enjoy Irish traditions, have fun, and feel part of a community.

The holiday started in 1978. It was created to give people a break and celebrate the beginning of summer. Many people enjoy a long weekend because they do not have to work or go to school on this day.

On the Early May Bank Holiday, people do different things. Some people relax at home or visit family and friends. Others go to the park, beach, or countryside if the weather is nice. There are also events like festivals, music concerts, and street fairs in some towns and cities.

In some places, there are old traditions. For example, in some villages, people dance around the "Maypole," a tall pole with ribbons. This is called Maypole dancing. It is a tradition that comes from old English celebrations of spring.

Shops and restaurants are usually open, but banks and offices are closed. Public transport may run less often than usual.

The Early May Bank Holiday is a good time to rest, enjoy nature, and spend time with others.

Wine has been part of Greek culture for at least 4,000 years, during which time they pioneered methods of viticulture and wine production.

The ancient Greeks believed that wine was a gift from the gods and they honoured Dionysus, whom they call the god of wine, with great festivals such as the Dionysia. Anthesteria was one of the festivals (and the most popular). It was held every year from the 11th to the 13th of the month of Anthesterion, around the time of the full moon in January or February. The festival celebrated the beginning of spring, especially the ripening of the wine stored from the previous vintage, whose pithoi (storage jars) were now ceremonially opened. Even the slaves were allowed to take part in this festival - the power of wine, I suppose(!).

Even Hippocrates used it as MEDICINE! He prescribed wine for various ailments, including digestive problems, wounds and infections. It was used as an antiseptic to clean wounds and as a base for mixing medicinal herbs.

In addition to its religious and mythological significance, wine was a staple of Greek social life, particularly at symposia - intellectual gatherings where men discussed philosophy and politics over wine. These gatherings reinforced the idea that wine should enhance conversation and camaraderie rather than lead to excessive drunkenness. Socrates says: "Wine moistens and tempers the spirit and quiets the cares of the mind. It revives our joys and is oil to the dying flame of life".

As I said, the Greeks were in their heyday when it came to wine and trade, so they played a significant role in spreading viticulture throughout the Mediterranean, influencing regions such as Italy and France.

They used "amphorae" to store their wine during transport.

Although the Ottoman Empire's anti-viticultural measures slowed them down, they got up! And are still making the best wines we love