Thousands across Türkiye marked the May 19 Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day on Tuesday with ceremonies, cultural performances and sporting events celebrating the country’s youth and the legacy of the national independence movement launched by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
From Samsun, northern Türkiye, where Atatürk first arrived to launch the War of Independence, to Istanbul and eastern provinces across the country, officials, students, athletes and residents gathered in stadiums, city squares and cultural centers for commemorations highlighting national unity, sacrifice and the role of young generations in Türkiye’s future.
In Samsun, northern Türkiye, celebrations marking the 107th anniversary of Atatürk’s arrival in the city on May 19, 1919, drew broad participation throughout the day.
A ceremony held at Ilkadım Archery Facilities began with a moment of silence and the national anthem.
In Istanbul, celebrations were held at the Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM), where participants observed a moment of silence for Atatürk, his comrades-in-arms and fallen soldiers before singing the national anthem.
