Winds of Dance Blew Through Kütahya: European Youth United in Culture

Kütahya recently hosted an unforgettable intercultural experience, welcoming young people from across Europe as part of the Folk Dance Fiesta YE project held between June 9–15, 2025. This Erasmus+ Youth Exchange brought together participants from Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, and Turkey, celebrating traditional dances as a powerful tool for cultural dialogue and friendship.

Organized by the Synaos Think Tank Association, the project combined educational workshops with vibrant local experiences. Supported by Kütahya Municipality, the public dance performances in Germiyan Street attracted great interest from the community. Accompanied by the elegant red-uniformed Eskişehir Marching Band, the parade led the way to the performance square, where each country’s dance group presented their folk dances. One of the most unforgettable moments came when the entire street joined together for the lively “Damat Halayı” (groom’s dance).

Following the public performance, the group visited the ancient city of Aizanoi a stunning archaeological site that deeply impressed all the participants. The Temple of Zeus and the relief of Medusa were among the most photographed highlights. As tradition in Synaos projects, a symbolic group photo was taken at the Medusa relief.

The grand finale of the project came with the Turkish Night, hosted in the beautifully prepared hall at the hotel with the support of Kütahya’s City Council Project Team. Although the Mayor could not attend due to a last-minute reason, the night was honored by Deputy Mayor Haşim Ertekin, City Council President Bülent Cebeci, and Head of Culture and Social Affairs Yıldırım Akgül. After an engaging presentation on Turkish and Kütahya culture, the folk groups performed their final dances, and Youthpass certificates were handed out.

Participants from Slovakia received their certificates from Mr. Ertekin, Romania’s from Mr. Cebeci, Hungary’s from Mr. Akgül, and Turkish participants received theirs from the Head of Department, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Elif Özdoğan. Custom-designed mugs by Keramika Factory and locally made tile keychains brought by Dr. Özdoğan were especially appreciated by the international guests.

Project coordinator Cüneyt Köşe reflected on the week by saying,

“Folk Dance Fiesta YE was not just about dance it was a meaningful journey where cultures met through peace, dialogue, and joy, replacing prejudice with genuine friendship.”