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30 AUGUST VICTORY DAY CELEBRATED ACROSS BODRUM WITH PARADES AND CONCERTS

31.08.2025

Bodrum marked the 103rd anniversary of Victory Day with official ceremonies, sea processions, torchlight parades and concerts across the peninsula

The 103rd anniversary of 30 August Victory Day was celebrated with pride and enthusiasm throughout the Bodrum Peninsula, as thousands of citizens came together for a day filled with ceremonies, parades and concerts.

The commemorations began in the morning with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Atatürk Monument in Bodrum Municipality Square, organised by the District Governorship. The event was attended by CHP Muğla MP Süreyya Öneş Derici, District Governor Ali Sırmalı, Mayor Tamer Mandalinci, Garrison Commander Colonel Ayhan Ulutaş, along with political representatives, municipal council members, chambers, NGOs, veterans, teachers, students and citizens. The official programme continued with greetings at the governor’s office and concluded with a visit to the Coast Guard vessel TCSG-106.

Victory on the Seas

The day’s spirit extended to the sea with a Victory Procession organised by Gündoğan Sports Club off Gündoğan Public Beach and by fishing and tour boats under the Turgutreis Fisheries Cooperative. Citizens warmly welcomed the sight of boats decorated in celebration as they sailed across Bodrum’s blue waters.

Torchlight Parades Unite Thousands

In the evening, thousands joined torchlight parades that lit up the peninsula. Marches were held simultaneously from Milta Bodrum Marina to Municipality Square, from Akçaalan Multi-Purpose Hall to Turgutreis Atatürk Square, from the Municipal Café to Yalıkavak Atatürk Square, and from Mustafa Kallem Park to Mumcular Cumhuriyet Square. Citizens, waving Turkish flags and carrying torches, filled the streets with songs and patriotic marches.

Concerts Across the Peninsula

Festivities continued with concerts in four locations: Madrigal in Bodrum Municipality Square, Dolu Kadehi Ters Tutin Turgutreis Atatürk Square, Pusula in Yalıkavak Atatürk Square, and Emirhan & Görkem Band in Mumcular Cumhuriyet Square.

Speaking at the celebrations, Mayor Tamer Mandalinci reflected on the historic significance of the day:

“103 years ago, under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and his comrades, the Great Offensive that began on 26 August at Kocatepe ended in victory on 30 August 1922. This triumph was not only a military success but the rebirth of a nation. Today, as then, our strength comes from our people and their trust in us. We must safeguard and carry forward the values that define who we are.”

The Mayor also announced that this year the Municipality would refrain from fireworks, instead dedicating support to a fundraising campaign for Eymen Özdoğan, a child battling DMD.

Messages of Independence and Unity

CHP Muğla MP Süreyya Öneş Derici emphasised the enduring message of independence:

“103 years ago, the Turkish nation proved that it would never surrender its independence. Independence is our character. Tonight, we celebrate with pride, unity and gratitude for those who secured this land for us.”

The 30 August celebrations once again showcased Bodrum’s collective spirit, uniting residents and visitors alike in honour of Türkiye’s enduring independence.