Turkey's oldest tradeshow - Izmir International Fair

Bordering along with various countries like Greece, Bulgaria, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Turkey is one of the diversified countries which is famous for its lip-smacking delicacies like Kebab and the Turkish desserts and also known for its geographical location, the number of mosques there which in itself is a tourist attraction and a lot more which will not be enough to fit in this blog! Next up is Izmir, following Istanbul and Ankara in terms of population, Izmir is the third-largest city in Turkey which houses so many as close to more than 4 million people. Formerly known as Smyrna, Izmir is famous for the Konak Clock Tower, the Levantine Mansions, the Ephesus Ancient Ruins, Smyrna: Church of Revelation and much more! It is also home to one of the oldest tradeshows in Turkey- the Izmir International Fair which will be taking place for the 91st consecutive time this year. Throughout the past 90 years, it has proved to be a one of a kind fair in Turkey. Let’s dive into the deeper details of this fair.

What is Izmir International Fair about?

History behind the Izmir International Fair
Where does it take place?
Why does it happen?
When does it happen?
What’s so special about the Izmir International Fair?

History behind the Izmir International Fair

The history takes us to the year 1923 with the foundation of the Republic of Turkey. The first Economy Congress actually laid the true foundation for this fair and they formed the basis of this fair. In 1936, Kültürpark became the national meeting area and in 1937, the Parachute tower was unveiled in Kültürpark to instil the interest in aviation in youngsters. In 1947, the fair became a member of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI). In 1971, new products were introduced like the escalator. In 1992, France became the First Guest of Honor Country. In 2011, Austria became the First Partner country of the fair. In 2016, the main theme was decided on as ” Innovation “. From then onwards, IEF took a turn towards success and is maintaining its success streak to date.

Where does it take place?

The Izmir International Fair takes place usually in the inner city of Izmir at a park named Kültürpark. Kültürpark is a public park situated in the Konak district. This park was founded in 1936 and since that period, this park has been hosting the Izmir International Fair. This park is surrounded by walls and people need not worry about the entry points in case of crowds because there are five entrance gates through which people can enter without worries! This park has amenities such as fourteen indoor exhibition halls, four conference halls, Atatürk Open Air Theater, İsmet İnönü Art Center, İzmir Sanat, a marriage office, Celal Atik Sports Hall, a parachute tower, Youth Theater, a museum, a 1,850-metre long-running track, tennis courts, and a football pitch and more!

Kültürpark in Izmir — Image Credits: Pixabay

Why does it happen?

The Izmir International Fair takes place so that morality is found, the solidarity between people is strengthened and the solutions to many economic problems are figured out during this fair while entertaining people at the same time. It is said that this fair is not just a fair, it is something more than that, a carrier of great heritage. This fair is the place where many developments and discoveries are made and hence becomes one of the reasons behind why the Izmir International Fair takes place. Especially during the pandemic, we are currently going through, this fair aims to tie up with other cities and places to improve their condition economically. It is believed that this cooperation will introduce many opportunities for them. It is basically promoting the development of various sectors with a high amount of trade.

People with Turkey flag — Image credits: Unsplash

When does it happen?

The Izmir International Fair will be happening for the 91st time this year. It usually takes place during the first two weeks of September for a period of 10 days. The fair hosts a variety of activities every year to both entertain the people and improve the economic condition. The activities range from concerts to theatre, movies are screened, musical shows are performed by artists, talks and street shows. The other diversified events are Izmir Business Days, Kemeraltı Street, Lawn Concerts, Mogambo Nights, Street Shows, Art Street, Book Street, Face-to-Face Talks, Cinema Here Festival. Famous singers both national and international perform at the concerts. In Izmir Business Days, discussions are done to create strong commercial connections during the first five days of the fair.

People in a meeting — Image Credits: Pexels

Also read: Planning a trip to Turkey Here’s a how you can get a Turkey visa for Indians

What’s so special about the Izmir International Fair?

The special fact about this fair is that this is Turkey’s first and only public fair that puts together various sectors and manages in conveying beautifully both the cultural and economic aspects of Turkey to the people. Many first times happened in this fair as in, the cosmonaut suit was exhibited here for the first time. Jeans and escalators were first introduced at this fair! The First National Lottery was drawn in the year 1940 and the First Digital Lottery was drawn in 1989 during this fair. Every year during the fair, the excitement which grows in the people’s minds is not describable! The fair is the time when elders and children alike enjoy themselves to the fullest. There is a saying in Turkey: Izmir means fair; Fair means Izmir. And true to its word, the Izmir International Fair is quite a treat and delight to the Turks!

A woman enjoying the hot-air balloons — Image Credits: Unsplash

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