For over a century and a half, county fairs have become integral to Anatolian towns in Turkey, evolving into living traditions rather than mere annual events. My ongoing documentary project explores the lives of the county fair workers families who make these fairs possible.
This cultural heritage, passed down through generations, has remained resilient. During scorching Anatolian summers, these workers and their families embark on a nomadic journey, setting up tents and moving from fair to fair, ensuring the tradition continues. In winter, they settle down, surviving through seasonal farming, scrap trading, and temporary jobs.
The entertainment at these fairs is not just a spectacle but a tradition maintained by fair families. However, their lives are far from glamorous. They spend days traveling, setting up and dismantling equipment, and moving to the next fairground, facing harsh realities.
A significant portion of their earnings goes back to the fair owner as rent. Despite financial challenges, fair workers persist, laboring tirelessly to cover expenses, save for the lean winter months, and support their families. Amidst the hardships, they find joy in camaraderie, the satisfaction of entertaining crowds, and the simple pleasure of making others happy. In this blend of hardship and joy, county fair workers embody the enduring spirit of Anatolia's vibrant traditions.