43rd Efes Selçuk Camel Wrestling Festival draws crowds in İzmir
The Efes Selçuk Camel Wrestling Festival, known as the "Kırkpınar of Camel Wrestling," was held for the 43rd time in the Selçuk district of İzmir.
- Turkey
- Published Date: 11:50 | 20 January 2025
- Modified Date: 11:53 | 20 January 2025
With the support of the Selçuk Municipality, the event was organized by the Selçuk Efes Culture and Tourism Foundation at the Pamucak Wrestling Arena.
A total of 120 camels from the Aegean, Mediterranean, and Marmara regions participated.
Despite the cold weather, camel wrestling enthusiasts filled the surrounding hills from early in the morning.
İzmir Metropolitan Mayor Cemil Tugay and Selçuk Mayor Filiz Ceritoğlu Sengel greeted the citizens attending the event. Tugay expressed his happiness about the tradition of camel wrestling being kept alive.
Before the matches, a moment of silence was observed, the National Anthem was sung, and prayers were made.
Camels, led by their owners, paraded in the area before engaging in matches.
The crowd was energized by the chants of the announcer, and some citizens accompanied the folk songs played with drums and pipes.
Stalls were set up selling camel sausages, local agricultural products, and handicrafts.
Spectators also enjoyed picnicking during the event.