By Margaret Sheard…..
I remember two years ago when going to witness the Dawn Vigil, making my way along to Escape Beach unfortunately, in the dark, I tripped and broke 3 toes so I wasn’t actually able to be part of the event and could only watch it from a distance by the monument where I sat nursing my foot in a great deal of pain although, even at a distance, I could feel the emotion of the occasion.
This year I am determined to go and join in with this very emotional and poignant event to celebrate, with many others, in the early hours of the 20th July at Escape Beach – Peace and Freedom Day.
On the evening of the 19th July, there will be entertainment in the area, with many artists performing, before the more serious
side of the event takes place at around 02.30am when candles and torches are lit at the beach area, it really is a wonderful sight to see.
During the 20th July, there will be many celebrations and parades all around North Cyprus and we can look forward to a display by the Turkish Stars Aerobatic Team around 6pm, over Kyrenia Harbour, which is always a spectacular performance.
For the Turkish Cypriots and the people who have chosen to make North Cyprus their home, this is a very special day.
I would love to go to the vigil but my eyes always let me down, 9pm is my bed time and eyes close down!!!!
For anyone who has not seen the Turkish Stars then they must go to the Girne Promenade. This will be our 8th year, as well as 7 Republic Days, and the display never fails to enthral everybody there. Being there the excitement is in the crowd, the planes flying in allsorts of amazing formations and of course THE NOISE!!!!
Do not forget that earlier there are speeches and a march past around 16.00 starting at Ataturk Statue. We usually listen to the speeches, cannot understand a word but it is emotional at times, then watch the march past of school children, old soldiers (and TMT), current sections of military, police, fire, CESV, Belidyse etc.
Between parade and airshow, there is time to grab a beer or coffee or whatever away from harbour area where prices may be cheaper.
Thank you David. We are sure many people will agree with you that this is a wonderful and emotional event and should not be missed.