Turkish Food Festival 2016 was held this past Saturday and Sunday, April 16th and 17th in Hoover, Alabama at the Istanbul Cultural Center. It was the third annual event but this was my first time attending and it was very enjoyable. I don’t know how I missed it the past two years. The picture above is the epitome of Turkish hospitality. I am so disappointed because I got the email and names for the nice people serving the tea and unfortunately, I cannot find it. They were so sweet and they are living in Huntsville. I am hoping they will see this post and contact me. That is what I love about Turkish people, they are so hospitable and welcoming. Having tea with them really took me back to my days living in Istanbul. Nothing makes me nostalgic for my days living in Turkey more than Turkish tea and Turkish coffee. I spent many summer days and evenings at the Yesilkoy Rohna Park drinking tea with my friends and all our children would play for hours. It was a short walk from our house and had a gorgeous seaside view. Well, let me get back on topic, the Food fest because I am getting a little misty eyed.
Anyway, luckily, we got there early and got our tickets because by the time we left, the lines were getting really long. It was a great turn out and it seemed like everyone enjoyed themselves. I went with my sister and daughter and we all had our favorites. My favorite was the gozleme. It went perfect with the delicious Turkish Tea. My sister’s favorite were the Stuffed Grape leaves or Dolmas. My daughter liked the Sigara Borek and the Sekerpare. The baklava was delicious also. I think overall, it was a big success. Mr. Huseyin Ergin was the director of the event and he and all those involved did a wonderful job. I can’t wait until next year to see what is in store for us because I can see this event growing each and every year. There may have been a few complaints about the lines, but hey to me that is a good thing. That means it is good and people want to wait for it. So anyone interested in going to this event, add the Turkish Food Festival on Facebook so you can find out the details for next year!
Update I have added the name of the wonderful people serving the tea at the festival. Mr. and Mrs. Hatice and Satilmis Budak thank you so much for your hospitality! I am also adding the business card for anyone wanting to order some of the beautiful Arty Crafty Turkish Handmade Home Decor.
