Dear Friends,

On the fertile lands of the Aegean, we are the heirs of a civilization whose roots reach back thousands of years. Archaeological studies clearly show us that, in these lands where earth meets fire, the story of pottery began nearly 8,000 years ago. Those first creations took their place on tables as vessels and utensils, serving one of humanity’s most fundamental needs: eating and drinking. Today, we not only preserve this meaningful heritage; we also enrich it, develop it, and introduce it to the world.

I am proud to say that the International Menemen Pottery Festival has now become more than just an event; it has grown into a global brand. The strong bond we established last year with guests from 41 different countries has made Menemen one of the global centers of this art. This is a shared success for all of us.

Now, with renewed excitement and a broader vision, we stand before you once again. At the 5th International Menemen Pottery Festival, to be held on 18–20 September 2026, we are turning our focus to the very place where pottery finds its meaning: the table. Under the theme “The World Comes Together at Menemen’s Pottery Table,” we unite art and gastronomy, past and present, culture and flavor around one shared table.

I firmly believe that this festival will make not only Menemen, but also our country, more visible on the world stage. It will once again introduce the strength of our deep-rooted culture to the world. Menemen is now a brand city in the field of pottery.

Come… Let us witness this 8,000-year-old story together.

Come… Let us all take our place at the World’s Pottery Table.

We look forward to welcoming you at the 5th International Menemen Pottery Festival.