After a very warm reception last year by local and foreign residents of Alanya, organized at the initiative of the Council of Foreigners International Christmas Bazaar also this year exceeded our expectations. It seems that this event has become very popular in Alanya and has taken a stable place on the city events calender. The stands were so crowded that it was difficult to squeeze in, and a stream of mulled wine was pouring steady (at least on the German and Finnish stands :). On the Russian stand there was an appetizing smell of meat dumplings and sauerkraut and in the Polish booth were sold spicey traditional gingerbread cookies and other baked goods as well as hand-made Christmas cards. Income from the sales during the bazaar will be donated to charities.

The Bazaar began at 12.00 a.m. on a day with shiny blue sky and temperatures around 20 degrees. Official opening was made by Alanya mayor, governor and the chairman of the Council of Foreigners, welcoming the guests and participants, wishing them a merry Christmas and all the best in the New Year. Of course we all were proud of the fact that Alanya shines a beautiful example of such a friendly and fruitful coexistence of several different cultures and nationalities.

Then the stage was taken over by children - performances of local schools and artists with the National Opera and Ballet in Antalya began. With the sounds of world-famous New Year's melodies and in the glare of 16-foot Christmas tree until ca. 19.00 p.m. we all enjoyed the Mediterranean-Christmasy atmosphere.