Traditional Sohbet Meetings play a crucial role in transmitting Turkish folk literature, folkdances and music, village plays as well as societal values.
While the stage features children twirling in vibrantly coloured skirts and adolescent boys performing gallant folkdances in traditional boots and bombachas (loose-fitting gaucho-style trousers), the most exciting spectacle of the day is the sortija.
Eating pancakes with meat, mushroom or sweet fillings and watching folkdances and games in Pirohovo museum in Kiev on this occasion is a more authentic alternative to dressing up for Mardi Gras.