Gökova Sesame Harvest Festival

The Gökova Sesame Harvest Festival is organised by Ula Municipality to celebrate the rich agricultural heritage of the Gökova region, promote the geographically indicated Gökova Sesame, and support local production and rural traditions. Bringing together producers, local communities and visitors, the festival showcases traditional farming practices, regional gastronomy and the cultural identity of Gökova while contributing to sustainable rural development and the preservation of agricultural heritage.

The festival programme includes the Slow Food Local Producers' Market, the traditional Gökova sesame harvest, documentary screenings, the traditional “Çitirmek” making and catching competition, educational and recreational workshops for children, sesame oil and tahini making workshops, the “Sesame for Health” talk, producer competitions, discussions with sesame producers, and local product exhibition and sales stands. Through these activities, visitors have the opportunity to experience the complete journey of Gökova Sesame, from cultivation and harvesting to traditional processing methods and local cuisine, while engaging directly with local producers.

The festival takes place in Gökova Neighbourhood of Ula District, Muğla, with events held at the Gökova Marketplace and the surrounding sesame fields. By combining authentic agricultural experiences with cultural and educational activities, the festival strengthens the connection between producers and consumers, raises awareness of the importance of preserving local agricultural traditions, and promotes Gökova's unique identity through sustainable tourism and community participation.