Kalkan celebrated National Sovereignty & Children's Day on the morning of Thursday 23rd April, with a brief ceremony by the Atatürk statue, followed by a full schedule of entertainment at Kalkan's First School (Kalkan Ilköğretim Okulu).

Some of the schoolchildren marched down to the Atatürk statue for the 9 am ceremony, where they joined local dignitaries.  Shortly afterwards, everyone made their way up to the school.  A crowd in excess of 1,500 packed into the grounds to watch or take part in the celebrations.  The school has 565 pupils, and it seems that most of them were there, well supported by their families, plus quite a few outside visitors.

In glorious sunshine the children performed a number of dances, both modern and traditional in  a variety of colourful costumes.  The assembled crowd were also treated to music and poetry readings.

The school headmaster, Galip Karalan, sat with Mayor Saim Karakurt, the Mayor's wife and other VIP guests, all of whom were clearly appreciative of the efforts of the children.

In this report we only show a few photos, however there were so many happy scenes to capture that we have created a new album (with 45 photos) in the KTLN photo gallery.  You have to be a registered member to see these, but registration is free.  Register Here