24th Cherry Festival to open in Bulatköy with three days of cultural events and concerts
The Municipality of Yassıköy is set to host the 24th edition of its annual Cherry Festival from June 12 to June 14, bringing together residents and visitors for three days of concerts, folk dance performances, and cultural activities.
The festival will take place at the Bulatköy concert grounds, with all events open to the public free of charge.
The celebrations will begin on Friday, June 12, at 8:00 p.m. with the official opening ceremony and welcoming remarks. The GTGB Folklore Group will take the stage at 9:00 p.m., followed by a concert by students from the Komotini Music School at 9:30 p.m. The evening will conclude with a performance by Grup Live at 10:30 p.m.
Packed Schedule on Saturday
Events on Saturday, June 13, will begin at 7:00 p.m. Students from the İskeçe Vocational High School will present a selection of cherry-based culinary treats to visitors.
At 8:30 p.m., folk dance performances will be staged by the Rhodope Karakachan Association and the Yassıköy Cultural Association. The evening’s concert program will then feature performances by Mina Baciu, Grup Orijinal Ton, and Turkish pop singer Ece Seçkin.
Festival Finale on Sunday
The closing day, Sunday, June 14, will begin with a joint folk dance performance by the Bulatköy and Susurköy associations at 8:30 p.m.
Greek singer Kelli Kelekidu will perform at 9:00 p.m., while Turkish alternative pop-rock band İkilem will headline the festival’s closing concert at 10:30 p.m.
Additional Attractions and Transportation
Festival organizers have also announced the installation of an amusement park, a festival marketplace, and exhibition stands showcasing municipal services and activities.
To facilitate access to the event, the Rhodope Intercity Bus Company (KTEL) will operate free shuttle services between Komotini and Bulatköy on Saturday and Sunday. Buses will depart from Komotini at 8:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., with return services from Bulatköy scheduled for midnight.
The Cherry Festival has become one of the region’s most anticipated annual cultural events, celebrating local traditions while bringing together communities from across Western Thrace.
