Turkey marked the 103rd anniversary of Victory Day (Zafer Bayramı,) on Aug. 30 with ceremonies, parades, and cultural events across the country, honoring one of the pivotal victories that led to the nation’s independence.
Observed every year on Aug. 30, Victory Day commemorates the 1922 Battle of Dumlupınar, when Turkish forces under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk dealt a decisive blow to the Greek army during the War of Independence.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, senior officials, and top commanders of the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) attended ceremonies in Ankara, while major cities hosted shows, concerts, and public gatherings that brought citizens together in celebration.
First celebrated in 1926, the holiday has long stood as a symbol of national pride and resilience. This year, large crowds once again gathered to remember the sacrifices of soldiers and the struggle that paved the way for the foundation of the Republic in 1923.
Victory Day remained one of Turkey’s most widely celebrated national holidays, uniting citizens and officials alike in shared remembrance of the country’s fight for sovereignty.
Celebrating Victory Day in Fethiye
Local officials attended the official ceremony and celebration program held to commemorate the 103rd anniversary of Victory Day. On this occasion, Mayor Karaca commemorated Atatürk and all the martyrs with respect and gratitude, while extending Victory Day greetings to the citizens of Fethiye.
Victory Day was also celebrated with enthusiasm at Akmaz Public Beach, operated by the Fethiye Municipality.
District Governor Fatih Akkaya, Mayor Alim Karaca, the heads and representatives of political parties, and hundreds of citizens participated in a march accompanied by the Fethiye Municipal Band. The march, which began at the Özgecan Monument and continued along the coastline, saw citizens carrying Turkish flags and singing heroic anthems. A giant Turkish flag was unfurled during the procession, which created a vibrant spectacle and was captured from the air by a drone.
Hundreds of citizens joined the march with music, flags, and chants. Mayor Karaca said the torchlight procession allowed residents to share both pride and joy, and he emphasized the enduring importance of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and the Republic.
Mayor Karaca thanked all citizens who filled the squares with the joy of Victory Day and expressed his appreciation to artist Tuğba Yurt, who performed during the celebrations. He said that as long as love for the country persisted, the light of the Republic would always shine.
Sources: Fethiye Belediyesi/Fethiye TV
