Ankara coffee festival draws thousands of aficionados across country

ANKARA, Sept. 21 (Xinhua) — The ongoing eighth annual Ankara Coffee Festival draws thousands of coffee lovers to celebrate both traditional and modern coffee cultures, featuring numerous brands and activities.

Thousands of coffee enthusiasts gathered for the coffee carnival, which began on Friday and has become a significant event in the capital’s cultural calendar.

The three-day festival highlights a mix of traditional and contemporary coffee practices, featuring 163 brands and microroasteries and attracting nearly 15,000 attendees, according to the festival’s organizer.

Visitors have the opportunity to sample artisanal brews, explore advanced coffee equipment, and participate in tastings and competitions.

“There’s a growing interest in coffee across the country,” said Bilal Ekinci, founder of a coffee brand in Istanbul. A former civil engineer, Ekinci now operates four shops and offers barista classes. He noted that the coffee boom has led to the emergence of many new businesses catering to modern tastes.

While third-wave coffee shops dominate the event, traditional Turkish coffee, recognized as a UNESCO cultural heritage, remains a key focus. Local businesses are finding innovative ways to attract younger consumers who may prefer international chains.

“We’re merging old methods with new quality standards,” said Halil Ozer, a barista at Kuzgundokuz in Ankara, pointing out a 15-year increase in coffee appreciation among diverse demographics.

The festival also features a variety of activities, from latte art demonstrations to aromatic cupping sessions, showcasing that Türkiye’s rich coffee heritage is entering an exciting new phase.