This is one of the seasonal festivals celebrated in Central Asia, the Middle East, Anatolia, and the Balkans. Known as Ruz-ı Hızır (Day of Hızır), the day of Hıdrellez is considered the day when Hızır, believed to be the helper of those in need around the world, and İlyas, believed to be the ruler of the seas, meet on earth. It is thought of as a day of celebration.
The Hıdrellez and Kakava Festivals heralding the arrival of spring, are celebrated in two separate locations in Edirne, on May 5-6.
Concerts, competitions, and dance performances take place on Saraçlar Street, while other events occur in Sarayiçi, where the Kırkpınar Wrestling Festival is also held.
The festivities start on both days with two special rituals to welcome spring. The burning of the Kakava Fire, symbolizing the desire for increased prosperity and the sharing of beauty, and the offering of rice take place on May 5 in Sarayiçi. The “Entrance to Spring” ritual, aiming to greet purification and the awakening of nature, takes place on May 6 at 6:00 AM along the banks of the Tunca River.
Representatives from all Romani (Gypsy) associations in Turkey, as well as local and foreign photographers, and approximately 10,000 spectators, according to recent figures, participate in the events. The Kakava Festival is closely followed by the global-national press.
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