The 6th Annual Chicago Turkish Festival

Those who visit Daley Plaza in the heart of downtown Chicago on May 28th through May 31st 2008 will be treated to a celebration of Turkish culture. The 6th Annual Chicago Turkish Festival will be taking place, featuring an incredible array of food, demonstrations, performances, and cultural education. Many groups and individuals from Turkey, along with Turkish-Americans presently living in Chicago will be participating in the event, showcasing their pride and heritage of their diverse culture.

Each day of the festival will feature unique and authentic Turkish music. Turkish music has a long history of musical influences from Europe as well as Asia. When viewing live performances of Turkish music, it is very clear how much pride is felt from these very old folk and ethnic filled musical traditions. In addition to music, visitors will be treated to beautiful authentic folk dances, unique displays of Turkish artwork, and a large variety of traditional products from Turkey. Exquisite crafts and handmade goods are available for purchase from a large variety of vendors at the event.

The main features of the Chicago Turkish Festival include cooking demonstrations of both modern and traditional Turkish styles, a fashion show which features some of the most world famous Turkish designers, and the incredible live performances of Turkish folklore dances. A wide range of activities for people of all ages are also a staple of the Chicago Turkish Festival.

The event is well known for their exhibits of authentic Turkish foods ranging from including world-renowned baklava, Turkish coffee, kabobs, and an incredible unique ice cream that is a must. Food that has been inherited from its Ottoman heritage is usually a combination of Central Asian, Balkan, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Although many may be uneasy to try some of the more traditional Turkish dishes, there is plenty of excellent cuisines and desserts that offer some incredible tastes.

Chicago is a wonderful place to experience and learn from Turkish culture. Chicago, along with New York City and Los Angeles are homes to the largest Turkish communities in North America. If you are interested in attending the Chicago Turkish Festival, simply make your way to Daley Park, which is located in one of the busiest areas of downtown Chicago. Daley Park is situated directly across the City Hall on Washington Street. The event is free to the public and is held from 10AM to 6PM. Performances will be featured at various times between 12:00PM and 2:00PM each day. Visit the Chicago Turkish Festival website to read additional details and view photographs from events in previous years.