On January 4, 2025, the village of Srednyaya Yelyuzan hosted LOCOFEST, a vibrant market celebrating Tatar culture and traditions.

The event opened with a welcoming speech by Zulfia Tugusheva, Chairperson of the Tatar Women’s Organization “Ak Kalfak” in the Penza Region.

Representatives of the Tatar Women’s Society “Ak Kalfak” in the Penza Region – Firdause Tumerkina, Dina Yangurazova, Ilmira Musautova, Albina Shabanova, and Ilvina Salmina – organized a fashion show showcasing traditional women’s costumes from various eras, sharing fascinating facts about each unique outfit.

Firdause Tumerkina, a local historian and author of books on preserving Tatar traditions, held a master class on creating the traditional Tatar women’s headdress, the kalfak. Attendees had the chance to connect with their heritage and learn new skills.

The program also featured poetry and songs performed in the Tatar language. Dina Yangurazova, a methodologist from the Kayum Nasyri Institute, recited Razil Valiyev’s poem “Tugan jirdt jyrly chishme” (“On the Native Land, the Spring Sings”), which deeply moved the audience. Ilvina Salmina, a member of the Youth Executive Committee of the Tatar National Cultural Autonomy in the Penza Region, delighted attendees with her performance of the Tatar song “Su Buyynda Uchak” (“The Fire by the River”).

LOCOFEST was a true celebration of Tatar culture, offering everyone the chance to immerse themselves in tradition, enjoy a creative atmosphere, and experience the warmth of community.

We thank the organizers for the invitation and look forward to future collaborations on projects that are important to our people.

Source: Tatars of Penza