Come to Yalikavak on Saturday, 12 January to see the camels dressed in all their finery paraded through the streets before the wrestling contests that start sometime in the morning of Sunday, January 13. The definitive starting time is not given simply because it’s up to the camels! They must be brought out of their accustomed brooding or languor and provoked enough to put up a fight of pushing, shoving and entwining of necks until one of the beasts crashes to the ground. Camel wrestling is not as adrenalin-loaded as a Spanish corrida, but neither is it as bloodcurdling or deadly; it is more stolid and workmanlike, more suiting to the stoical character of the natives.

Though it is not advertised or openly admitted there is a lot of betting going on during these contests. Many fans spread out blankets around the wrestling ground and put on a spread of food and drink entertaining their friends and fellow cameleers, making the occasion noticeably festive. This is part of the local culture, recommended to be experienced at least once in a lifetime.

Kids and parents have something to look forward to next month: the Second International Children’s Film Festival organized jointly by the Bodrum Municipality, Marmara College and the Communications Faculty of the University of Istanbul. In addition to some 60 films to be shown, there will be discussion panels and workshops with participation from Germany and the U.S. More details can be obtained from nilocel@instanbul.edu.tr or nadiguler@yahoo.com