About the Carnival
In March 2007 the founder members of the Carnival Committee met with the Mayor of Fethiye to ask his permission to organise a Carnival Day in Çaliş. This was to consist of a fancy dress procession, an exhibition area and a free evening concert. Following submission of a business plan, approval was granted and the date of the first ever Çaliş Carnival was set as Saturday 7 June 2008.
As the Carnival Committee was not a registered association and it was a condition of approval that, in order to achieve legal status, the committee worked under the umbrella of a recognised body and in the first instance the committee acted under the banner of Çaliş Turizm ve Tanitma Derneği and then, in later months, under the banner of FETAV.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
Although planned primarily as a one day family fun day, the Carnival Committee hoped to achieve a number of aims and objectives. These were to:
• Develop and instill a sense of belonging and local pride in Çaliş with everyone working together “hand in hand” for the good of the town;
• Encourage and develop positive relations and harmony between the Turkish community and foreign citizens who have either bought property or are residing, working or holidaying in the Çaliş area;
• Enhance the economic development of Çaliş and promote a positive image of the town locally, regionally, nationally and internationally, therefore encouraging increased tourism in Çaliş;
• Involve local schools, businesses, organisations and institutions in promoting both Çaliş and their own activities;
• Showcase Turkish customs and culture;
• Raise funds for under privileged sections of the local community, these sectors to be chosen using advice and direction from Fethiye Belediye;
• Create an enjoyable day and very safe atmosphere for all participants and visitors to the Carnival.
Although fund raising was one of the objectives, it was not the prime objective. However, as the carnival has progressed it has become increasingly important to help local disadvantaged children.
The carnival is now in its third year.
To see the annual report for 2008 see the link here.
The 2009 annual report will follow in spring 2010 when all the funds have been disbursed.
