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MAY 19 HONORED & CELEBRATED WITH UNITY AND MUSIC IN BODRUM

20.05.2025

Bodrum commemorated May 19th, the Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day, with great fervor and unity, hosting thousands of residents and visitors in a series of vibrant, patriotic events.

Organized by the Municipality, celebrations took place in three major locations: Bodrum center, Turgutreis and Yalıkavak. Renowned musical figures took to the stage with Can Bonomo performing at Bodrum Municipality Square, Dedublüman in Turgutreis Atatürk Square and Zakkum in Yalıkavak Atatürk Square. These performances energized the crowds and filled the coastal town with music, joy and national pride.

The day began with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Atatürk Monument, marking the 106th anniversary of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s landing in Samsun, a symbolic beginning of the Turkish War of Independence. Activities continued at Bodrum Castle and culminated in torch-lit marches at 20:00 from Bodrum Milta Marina, Yalıkavak Belediye Cafe and Turgutreis Akçaalan to the concert locations. Marchers carrying Turkish flags and torches sang national anthem, expressing heartfelt gratitude to Atatürk.

Among the attendees were Bodrum District Governor Mustafa Çit, Mayor Tamer Mandalinci, deputy mayors, municipal council members, political party representatives, local officials, teachers, students, citizens and members of the press.

The night featured a dazzling fireworks show that lit up the skies over Bodrum, while a sea of mobile phone flashlights created a magical display of lights, uniting thousands in a shared moment of celebration.

Bodrum District Governor Mustafa Çit addressed the crowd, stating:

“It was the 19th of May when Mustafa Kemal Pasha arrived in Samsun. He believed that the Turkish nation would reclaim its independence through its own will. This nation has freedom in its veins. In its veins runs independence, justice and democracy. Long live our modern, democratic, secular state of law. This nation will forever preserve its independent future through its free will, let there be no doubt about it. I respectfully commemorate our Great Leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and his comrades-in-arms. Happy May 19th!”

“The hundreds of torches we have lit represent the eternal, unquenchable fire of the Republic.”

Mayor Tamer Mandalinci declared in his speech:

“On the anniversary of the liberation torch lit in Samsun, welcome to the millions of Republic lovers who now fill Bodrum, Yalıkavak, Turgutreis, Mumcular, Muğla and every corner of Türkiye with its light. The torches we lit just a moment ago represent the eternal fire of the Republic that will never be extinguished under any circumstances. We are lucky to have the Republic and lucky to have all of you.

Millions walking in the footsteps of our leader who once said, ‘All my hope lies in the youth,’ are today celebrating May 19th all across Türkiye. Shoulder to shoulder, on squares and fields, we are reliving one of the most crucial steps of our National Struggle. And here today, thousands of citizens from Bodrum who remain loyal to Atatürk, the Republic and his revolutions, are proudly and loudly voicing their devotion.

Long live Atatürk! Long live the Republic of Türkiye! May the Republic endure forever!”

As one of the youngest mayors in Türkiye, Mandalinci continued with determination:

“I love you all very much. We will work hard to do even greater things for you. Because, as our leader said, ‘Those who set out not to rest will never tire.’. Together, with determination, courage and perseverance, we shall strive to make Bodrum an international brand. Happy May 19th, the Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day.”