2025 Events - ATA-DC

Atatürk School Teacher’s Day Celebrations

Berk Somer — Sun, 23 Nov 2025 16:31:00 +0000

November 23, 2025 — Falls Church, VA
ATA-DC’s Atatürk School students and parents came together to celebrate Teachers’ Day, honoring the legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who was given the title “Head Teacher of the National Schools” on this day in 1928—later officially recognized as Teachers’ Day in 1981.
The gathering offered a warm moment of gratitude for Atatürk’s vision for modern education and for the dedicated teachers who guide and inspire students each week. Families shared appreciation for the Atatürk School teachers, who preserve cultural heritage and help shape a bright future for our community.

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ATA-DC Volunteer Appreciation Party

Sevtap Schreffler — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 04:21:00 +0000

November 16, 2025 — Falls Church, VA
On November 16, 2025, ATA-DC proudly celebrated the shining stars of our community—our dedicated volunteers—with a special gathering at the ATA-DC House. More than 60 volunteers joined the afternoon event to be honored for their invaluable contributions, energy, and commitment, which make programs like the Turkish Festival possible.

Guests enjoyed a warm, festive atmosphere of appreciation, reflection, and connection, highlighting the heart and spirit that volunteers bring to the organization. Speeches and conversations underscored how volunteer dedication strengthens the ATA-DC community, preserves cultural traditions, and ensures that events are welcoming, vibrant, and impactful for thousands of participants each year.

This celebration was a heartfelt thank-you to the backbone of ATA-DC—our volunteers—whose passion, generosity, and commitment continue to inspire and uplift the Turkish-American community in the Washington, DC area.

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DynamicFolk Dance Workshop

Ozge Ovun Sert — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 22:04:00 +0000

October 11, 2025 — Falls Church, VA
ATA-DC brought the energy and spirit of Anatolia to life with a Turkish Folk Dance Workshop led by a renowned dancer and
Instructor Yeliz Dingler. Held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at the ATA-DC House in Falls Church, Virginia, the event invited participants to experience the rhythm, movement, and emotion of Türkiye’s regional dance traditions as part of ATA-DC’s Turkish Heritage Month celebrations. Over the course of two lively sessions, attendees learned two distinct styles of folk dance. The first hour featured Turkish Roman, known for its expressive 9/8 rhythm and storytelling gestures rooted in the Romani culture of Türkiye. The second session explored Artvin Horon and Eastern Halay — dynamic group dances that reflect the
communal spirit and diverse landscapes of the Black Sea and Eastern Anatolia. Participants of all backgrounds, ages 14 and up, joined in the movement, filling the ATA-DC House with music, laughter, and camaraderie.

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Atatürk School 10th November Commemoration Ceremony

Berk Somer — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 02:05:00 +0000

November 9, 2025 — Falls Church, VA
ATA-DC’s Atatürk School for Children gathered for a heartfelt commemoration of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, honoring the founder of modern Türkiye ahead of the 10 November Atatürk Memorial Day. Students recited poems and reflections dedicated to Atatürk’s vision, leadership, and enduring contributions to education and national progress.

The ceremony concluded with students placing red carnations at Atatürk’s statue, a symbolic gesture of respect and gratitude for a leader whose legacy continues to guide and inspire generations. Families and teachers joined in the remembrance, creating a meaningful and reflective moment for the entire school community.

This annual observance reaffirms the Atatürk School’s commitment to instilling cultural pride, historical understanding, and civic values in its students, ensuring that Atatürk’s principles remain alive in the hearts of the next generation.

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YCAP – Civic Engagement Seminar

Berk Somer — Sat, 08 Nov 2025 15:59:00 +0000

November 8, 2025 — Falls Church, VA
On November 8, 2025, the Young Cultural Ambassadors Program (YCAP) hosted an inspiring in-person session at the ATA-DC House, titled “Civic Engagement and Why It’s Important for You.” Youth participants enjoyed an engaging afternoon of learning, discussion, and connection, as part of YCAP’s ongoing mission to cultivate informed and active community leaders.

Speakers included Lydia Borland, President of LB International Solutions, who shared insights on civic participation and leadership, and Lincoln McCurdy, former President of the Turkish Coalition of America and the American Turkish Council, who offered perspectives on Turkish-American relations.

This event highlights YCAP’s commitment to empowering youth through both in-person and virtual sessions, fostering knowledge, leadership skills, and a deeper understanding of civic and cultural engagement

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Turkish Republic 102nd Anniversary Grand Ball

Sevtap Schreffler — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 21:32:00 +0000

November 1, 2025 — Washington, DC
ATA-DC proudly celebrated the 102nd Anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye with an elegant Republic Day Ball at the Washington Plaza Hotel. The evening brought together community members, friends, and distinguished guests for a night filled with pride, music, and heartfelt tribute to the vision of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and the enduring spirit of the Turkish Republic.

The celebration featured a captivating musical performance by Selin Geçit, an inspiring keynote address by Ambassador Francis Joseph Ricciardone, Jr. (Ret.), and remarks by His Excellency Sedat Önal, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to the United States. ATA-DC was further honored by the presence of Ambassador Damla Güçlü of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and Deputy Chief of Mission Murat Uğurluoğlu of the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye.
Guests enjoyed a vibrant cocktail hour, a festive dinner, and lively entertainment throughout the night, including additional music by Selin Geçit and guest DJ Seyhan Duru.

The evening was seamlessly guided by Master of Ceremonies Fırat Emiroğlu, whose warmth and energy helped make the event memorable.
This unforgettable celebration highlighted the strength, unity, and cultural pride of the Turkish-American community in our nation’s capital. ATA-DC extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined in honoring this meaningful milestone.

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Atatürk School Republic Day Celebration

Sevtap Schreffler — Sun, 26 Oct 2025 21:22:00 +0000

October 26, 2025 — Falls Church, VA
On October 26, 2025, ATA-DC’s Atatürk School for Children celebrated the 102nd Anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye at the ATA-DC House. Students honored Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Türkiye, through poems, performances, and presentations that highlighted his legacy and the values of leadership, courage, and civic responsibility.

Teachers guided the presentations on the history and significance of Republic Day, while families joined to celebrate the students’ achievements. This event reflects ATA-DC Atatürk School’s dedication to educational excellence, cultural heritage, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.

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Turkish Festival 2025

Sevtap Schreffler — Sun, 19 Oct 2025 21:27:00 +0000

October 19, 2025 — Washington, DC
ATA-DC proudly hosted the 23rd Annual Turkish Festival on October 19, transforming Pennsylvania Avenue into a vibrant celebration of Turkish culture, cuisine, music, and community. With over 20,000 attendees, the festival once again stood as one of Washington, DC’s most beloved cultural events.

The festival featured the largest display of authentic Turkish cuisine in the United States, alongside dynamic performances by dance ensembles and cultural groups. Highlights included the interactive “Damat Halayı” workshop, the crowd-favorite “Erik Dalı” dance, and an electrifying final performance by the acclaimed Anatolian rock band Necati and Saykolar.

Visitors also enjoyed Ebru art demonstrations, artisan showcases, and a lively Kids’ Tent filled with cultural crafts and activities. The Young Cultural Ambassador (YCA) Program played a major role, with 50 youth volunteers supporting festival operations and engaging with visitors throughout the day.

Recognized for 13 years as Washington City Paper’s “Best Festival” and “Best Cultural Festival,” the Turkish Festival continues to highlight the richness of Turkish heritage and bring the community together in a joyful, unforgettable celebration.

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Turkish Coffee Fortune Reading

Sevtap Schreffler — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 21:13:00 +0000

October 12, 2025 — Falls Church, VA
ATA-DC hosted a delightful cultural afternoon celebrating one of Türkiye’s most treasured customs — the art of Turkish coffee and fortune reading. Held at the ATA-DC House in Falls Church, the event was part of the Turkish Heritage Month festivities, drawing community members eager to experience this unique blend of culture, flavor, and tradition.

Participants learned how to brew Turkish coffee while exploring the centuries-old tradition of reading fortunes from coffee grounds, known as fal. The workshop offered not only a helpful introduction to the brewing process but also insights into the cultural symbolism and storytelling that make this ritual an enduring part of Turkish social life.

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ATA-DC KICKED OFF TURKISH HERITAGE MONTH WHILE CELEBRATING ITS 60 YEARS OF LEGACY

Sevtap Schreffler — Sat, 04 Oct 2025 20:51:00 +0000

October 4, 2025 — Falls Church, VA

On October 4, 2025, the American Turkish Association of Washington, DC (ATA-DC) welcomed the community to the ATA-DC House for a joyous gathering marking three remarkable milestones — the kickoff of the 14th Turkish Heritage Month, ATA-DC’s 60th Anniversary, and the organization’s 1st Anniversary as a registered Virginia non-profit.

The event brought together more than 70 guests, including ATA-DC board members, longtime supporters, and friends from the broader Turkish-American community. The morning was filled with connection, laughter, and shared memories as attendees enjoyed a delightful brunch prepared by Chef Aynur Cooks, featuring an array of traditional and contemporary dishes that reflected the richness of Turkish culinary heritage.

The ATA-DC House, now a vibrant hub for cultural and educational activities, continues to welcome community members for events, seminars, and celebrations. As ATA-DC celebrates these milestones, the organization also emphasizes the ongoing opportunities for community support, including initiatives to enhance programming, educational offerings, and special projects that strengthen the Turkish-American community in the region.

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