The Çanakkale Municipality is organizing the 54th International Troia Festival to take place Aug. 8-13. The annual International Troia Festival has been held in Çanakkale province since 1963 and offers audiences a chance to enjoy culture and art again this year under the theme, "Hey, Freedom."

The festival began on Tuesday, Aug. 8 in the ancient city of Troia and was marked by the Homer Science Culture and Art Awards ceremony.Festival events are taking place at the Çimenlik Fortress, Freedom Park, the amphitheater, the public garden, the Çanakkale Ceramics Museum, the Çanakkale municipality, the City Museum and Archive and the State Fine Arts Gallery.

Many local and foreign artists including Burhan Öçal & the Trakya All Stars will perform at the festival. Also, the world-famous Moscow State Ballet's "Swan Lake" will be presented at the Çimenlik Fortress. A dance group comprised of six Spanish siblings, Los Vivancos, is also on the program.

In addition, there will be interviews and exhibitions offered in the public garden, at the Writers and Artists House and the Ceramics Museum. Plays will be staged in the amphitheater.