New Year Celebrations as a Cultural Heritage in Trabzon: Kalandar Tradition

Authors : Ayşe Eren Kanbir

Pages : 264-279

Doi:10.59445/ijephss.1658140

View : 72 | Download : 136

Publication Date : 2025-07-15

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study comprehensively examines the historical origins, evolution, current celebration practices and social function of Kalandar, an ancient New Year’s tradition specific to Trabzon and its surroundings. Its origins date back to Ancient Greek and Roman times. Kalandar is not only a calendar ritual, but also a significant tradition that reinforces social solidarity, keeps collective memory alive and nurtures cultural pluralism. The study employed a variety of research methods, including a literature review, on-site observation of events and qualitative interviews with ten participants. The findings show that Kalandar celebrations include rituals such as domestic preparations, children going around the houses to collect food, village spectacles (especially the Karakoncolos stereotype), and lighting a fire and playing horon in the open area. These rituals emphasize values such as sharing, fertility, unity and a sense of community. The article also draws attention to the importance of preserving this intangible cultural heritage, which is at risk of being lost due to the impact of globalization and modernization. It states that Kalandar is included in Turkey\\\'s national inventory of intangible cultural heritage and has potential for cultural heritage tourism. In conclusion, it is emphasized that Kalandar tradition is an important cultural heritage element for Trabzon region thanks to its deep historical roots, rich cultural content and strong social ties.
Keywords : Kalandar, kültür tarihi, Trabzon, somut olmayan kültür mirası, Karakoncolos

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