In a uniquely Cypriot setting, thousands of people came together to celebrate village life—past, present and future—on Sunday, May 3! The community of Buyukkonuk/Komi Kebir organized a day of activities focused on promoting eco-tourism in the Karpas region, where Cyprus’ traditional ways and natural beauty are under threat by modern influences and mass tourism. Visitors enjoyed folk dancing and music; traditional foods; donkey rides; exhibits; demonstrations of traditional bread, cheese, macaroni, carob syrup and sweets making; and several other activities, including hiking and cycling tours using nearby trails that guide visitors through some of Cyprus’ most breathtaking landscapes.

The community’s efforts to promote responsible tourism development have been supported by USAID through the Economic Development and Growth for Enterprises (EDGE) and Supporting Activities that Value the Environment (SAVE) projects. Like all U.S.-funded programs in Cyprus, EDGE and SAVE are aimed at facilitating reunification of the island, including through encouraging responsible economic growth and sound environmental management.