In this article, we bring you up to speed on a few local events, planned for May 2011.

Turkish wrestling
May is usually the month that sees men, smothered in olive oil, wrestling in the arena at Üzümlü.

Unfortunately, the Turkish wrestling event has been cancelled.  It appears that it has gone the same way as the camel wrestling, that was supposed to take place in Çayköy in February - namely the organisers could not agree terms with the local municipality.

So for this year at least, local wrestling fans are going to be disappointed.  It's a shame.

The Kumluova Tomato Festival
For the 24th year, the good people of Kumluova, (near Letoon), are celebrating the tomato harvest, with the Kumluova Tomato Festival.

The festival, on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th May, comprises a market, plus a couple of concerts, featuring Turkish musicians.

Traditionally, the market, (and it's not just selling tomatoes), is huge, and well worth a visit.  If you want to go, but are not sure how to get there, tour operator, Exclusive Kalkan, is organising a trip, on Saturday 14th May.  Details as follows:

• 09:30 leave Kalkan for Kumluova
• 10.00 visit the historic Lycian ruins at Letoon
• 11.00 visit Özden beach ( the far end of Patara Beach)
• 12:00 visit the very large market.  There are places at the market where people will be able buy something to eat.
• 16:00 (approx) leave Kumluova to return to Kalkan

To book your place, please contact the tour operator:  Exclusive Kalkan

On Saturday and Sunday evening, starting at 19.00, there will be a couple of music concerts.  See poster below.

Please note, that these concerts were originally planned to be held in the amphitheatre at Letoon, however, the Ministry of Tourism has refused permission, so the concert will be held nearby. 

Just follow the crowd.  Pay at the concert - 5TL on Saturday and 10TL on Sunday.  The star of the weekend is Black Sea vocalist, Volkan Konak, who is performing on Sunday evening.

If you wish to read more about the humble tomato, without which this whole event would not be possible, click on this link:  The KTLN Kalkan Guide to the Tomato

 

KTLN - your window on Kalkan Turkey.

Katie-Ellen
Love KTLN. Love Kalkan.