Ilgaz Mountain, one of Kastamonu’s leading winter tourism destinations, hosted an enthusiastic event that brought together young people and visitors. The “Ilgaz Youth Winter Festival,” organized by the Kastamonu Provincial Directorate of Youth and Sports with the support of relevant institutions, particularly the Kastamonu Governorship and our University, was held with strong participation.

The festival took place on February 14, 2026, at Ilgaz Ski Center. The program, which included music and stage performances, various social activities, ski shows, and winter-themed events, offered enjoyable moments for participants. Our Rector, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hamdi Topal, also visited the festival area, met with students, and closely followed the activities. The ski shows organized within the scope of the festival attracted particular attention, especially the performances featuring the Turkish flag. Folk dance performances, sports competitions, and various social activities held throughout the day created colorful scenes in the festival area.

Sami Kuşçu, Provincial Director of Youth and Sports, stated that the festival aims to contribute to the promotion of Ilgaz and increase interest in winter sports. He also noted that the chairlift service remains operational, efforts to expand accommodation facilities are ongoing, and free ski training will be provided to young people within the scope of the “We Are Learning to Ski” project. Kastamonu Deputy Governor Mevlüt Özmen emphasized Ilgaz’s tourism potential throughout all four seasons. AK Party Kastamonu Member of Parliament Serap Ekmekci also highlighted Ilgaz’s importance as a winter sports center and referred to ongoing infrastructure investments.

The festival continued with various activities following the protocol speeches.