Focused on children and the importance of preserving Cyprus’ multicultural past and traditions for future generations, the Festival featured folk and other dance shows, musical performances, and other artistic displays

With support from USAID, the newly created “Famagusta Walled City Destination Development Project Steering Committee” made up of local leaders, residents and business people organized a Children’s Festival on April 11. Over 5,000 people spent the day touring, shopping and walking in the open air museum that is historic Famagusta. The festival was one of the many activities planned to increase appreciation for the cultural assets of the City and to improve conditions for residents and visitors.

Focused on children and the importance of preserving Cyprus’ multicultural past and traditions for future generations, the Festival featured folk and other dance shows, musical performances, and other artistic displays. Children enjoyed a variety of activities while vendors sold traditional Cypriot delicacies and organic products. Guided tours—some accompanied by child actors—provided groups with insights into the centuries of history and associated traditions of the City.

The “Famagusta Walled City Destination Development Project Steering Committee” is working to inspire community activism and outside interest

Famagusta’s potential to again be a center for visitors and commerce is largely unrecognized. To remedy this and with technical assistance and support from USAID, the “Famagusta Walled City Destination Development Project Steering Committee” is working to inspire community activism and outside interest. More information on the Committee and its work can be found at http://www.famagustawalledcity.org.

Like all U.S.-funded programs in Cyprus, activities such as this are aimed at facilitating reunification, including through the responsible management of natural and cultural resources.