Annual International Fair comes to Izmir

  • Published
  • By Tanju Varlikli
  • 425th Air Base Squadron host nation adviser
IZMIR AIR STATION, Turkey --  Izmir is hosting one of the premier events of the year - the 84th Izmir International Fair from Aug. 28 to Sept. 6. The national and international showcases open and close at the same time this year during the new 10-day-fair. The fair opens its gates to 1,130 firms from 45 countries with the theme of "education."

Izmir, one of Turkey's most important tourism and business centers, is known for its reputation of being the city of fairs, largely because of its 84-year history with the International Fairs. Izmir International Fair, a window open to the world, was founded on Atatürk's thought: "Great military and political glories cannot last, if economical glories do not support them."

After the 1st Economy Congress of Türkiye in Izmir, the 9th of September Domestic Goods Exhibition was opened in 1923. The Izmir International Fair was founded in 1931 and was placed in the Culture Park, Kültürpark, in an area of 421,000 square meters in 1936. Whenever Turkish people hear the word 'fuar,' they think of the Izmir International Fair, which begins late August every year at the Lozan Circle in the park. It has a long tradition of entertainment and exhibits. Some people like exploring the vibrant market of Türkiye showcased in the fair. While some visitors like seeing the latest developments in technology, others look for celebrities and the international flavor.

Many countries, as well as commercial enterprises will be represented this year at the Izmir International Fair. Other activities of the 84th Izmir International Fair include: the International Folk Dances, the World Cuisines Festival, the International Magic Festival, public concerts, autograph days featuring many Turkish celebrities, panels, businessmen days, commercial seminars and symposiums, commercial and cultural activities of Turkmenistan, the guest country of honor of the Izmir International Fair. This year's guest city of honor is Eskişehir.

The Kültürpark Fairground is situated in the town center. The location plan for the 84th Izmir International Fair exhibits can be found on the back page of the brochures prepared by the Metropolitan Municipality of Izmir. The brochures can be obtained from Izmir Fair Services Culture and Arts Affairs Trade, Inc.

The entrance fee, which can be paid by Kent Card, is 2.25 TL for adults and 1.25 TL for students.

For more information about the Izmir International Fair, visit www.izmirfair.com.tr