The festival program began with a gala dinner held at Akra Antalya. The opening night brought together representatives from 26 cities across 21 countries, serving as a meeting point where bridges of friendship between cities were built. Visiting mayors and delegations described the Kaleiçi Old Town Festival as “an exemplary event that strengthens friendship and cooperation among cities.”
On the second night of the festival, the streets of Kaleiçi transformed into a fairytale scene with the traditional parade, one of the most anticipated events each year. Stilt walkers, jugglers, fire magicians, and marching bands in colorful costumes accompanied the procession. Starting in front of the former Metropolitan Municipality building, the parade wound its way through Kaleiçi’s narrow historic streets, drawing great attention from spectators. The vibrant parade concluded at Karaalioğlu Park with a concert by Gripin. The concert area filled hours before the performance, as young people sang along to Gripin’s songs in unison.
On the third day, a forum themed “Peace” was held at Türkan Şoray Cultural Center with the participation of international delegations. Representatives shared peace policies implemented in their own cities, and the event concluded with the signing of a Peace Declaration. In addition, Muratpaşa Municipality signed cooperation protocols with Kamianets-Podilski from Ukraine and Noto from Italy. Visiting mayors and delegations departed for their countries following the farewell dinner held on the fourth day of the festival.
Throughout the festival, various art workshops — including painting, ceramics, sculpture, felt, and photography — were set up in different parts of Kaleiçi. Street performances, dance shows, and exhibitions transformed Kaleiçi’s historic streets into an open-air stage. Participants not only added color to the festival with their creations but also had the opportunity to experience different forms of art in a unique historical atmosphere.
One of the most remarkable events of this year’s festival was the orienteering competition. Held in Kaleiçi’s labyrinth-like streets, the race drew numerous participants, including 40 athletes from Muratpaşa Municipality Sports Club. Delegations from guest cities also showed great interest. Competitors demonstrated their navigation skills using maps and compasses, creating colorful and lively scenes throughout Kaleiçi. Winners of the competition received their awards at a special ceremony.
