SIRA GECESİ

  Sıra gecesi is one of the oldest and most rooted cultures of Sanli Urfa. The origin of the sıra gecesi dates back to the National Independence War. The Consultation Assembly, established in the 1920s, was a place where plans were discussed for the liberation of the country from enemy occupation. Major Ali Riza Bey and his friends established the Mudafaa-i Hukuk Urfa branch during one of these sıra gecesi sessions. On April 11, 1920, when the country was liberated from French occupation, the event turned into a celebration and entertainment, and it has continued to the present day. Sıra gecesi is a gathering among men where a wide range of topics such as health, education, economics, arts, literature, history, politics,religious matters, and both Turkish and global issues are discussed while music and song are performed. It is a night where friendships turn into close bonds, and solidarity, mutual support, enjoyable conversation, music, and literature all blend together. The group members usually gather on Friday evenings, taking turns to host the event at their homes, hence the name "sıra" which means "turn" in Turkish." After the guest arrives, serving food, chatting, and having fun begin. The treats include coffee, tea, çiğköfte (a Turkish dish made of ground meat and spices), and sweets. Firstly, mırra (a traditional Turkish coffee-like beverage) is served. Mırra also has its own unique tradition. After drinking mırra, tea is served, and then comes the essential part of the night, the çiğköfte course. These nights are a blend of friendship, solidarity, mutual support, enjoyable conversation, music, and literature.