The winter sky is grey in Istanbul but the mood is upbeat and the city is charged with optimistic energy. Final preparations are underway for a big party extravaganza on January 16 that will officially inaugurate activities of the Istanbul European Capital of Culture 2010 (the designation it shares with two other cities in Europe- Pécs in Hungary and Essen in Germany).
Seven different locations in the city have been chosen to kick start a year long programme of events. Dazzling display of fireworks in Taksim, sound and light show on the Golden Horn, pop star concerts, Ottoman military band in Sultanahmet, rock groups, shamanic dances, Mercan Dede, the famous DJ, and his signature mix of traditional Turkish music and electronic sounds - there is something for all tastes.
Museums will stay open till midnight – an unusual way to discover or re-discover their fascinating treasures under the moon light.
After years of hard work, months of careful planning and countless rehearsals, the organizers hope to have produced an unforgettable spectacle worthy of Istanbul’s glorious past and its exciting present.
“Istanbul is ready to share its energy with Turkey and the world”
See the detailed programme of activities on the official website http://www.en.istanbul2010.org/index.htm
If you have not been to Istanbul yet, 2010 is definitely an exciting year to visit!
