Samsun, as one of the largest cities in the Black Sea Region, stands out with its unique lifestyle and rich traditional culture. Thanks to its fertile Black Sea soil and wide coastline, the city is known as a region where activities such as agriculture and fishing are intensively carried out. These activities are directly reflected in the daily lives of the people of Samsun and have a wide range of influences from local cuisine to social events.
Life in Samsun has a rhythm intertwined with nature. There are green areas, forests and parks in many parts of the city. These areas have an important place in the social life of the city people. On weekends and evenings, families frequently use these areas for picnics, hiking, or just spending time in nature. Samsun is also home to a variety of nature sports; activities such as trekking, mountain biking, and paragliding are among the popular options for nature lovers.
Traditionally, community events and festivals are the lifeblood of social life in Samsun. Village festivals, especially in the summer months, are colorful scenes with folkloric dances, music, and food of the region. Such events bring the community together and contribute to the transmission of cultural values that have been passed down through generations.
Samsun cuisine is full of flavors reflecting the abundance and fertility of the Black Sea. Various seafood, especially anchovies, are very popular in the region. Local delicacies such as corn bread, black cabbage soup, and Samsun pita are among the indispensables of the tables of the people of Samsun. The dishes are usually prepared with plenty of butter, corn flour and local fish species. In addition, tea, which is grown in the region, is an indispensable part of social interactions that Samsunlu people consume frequently throughout the day.
Special days such as weddings and circumcisions are of great importance in the traditional customs of Samsunlu people. Such events are usually celebrated with large participation and last for several days. Horon kicking accompanied by drum and zurna at weddings is an activity in which everyone, young and old, participates. Such traditional celebrations strengthen ties between community members and increase social cohesion.
With all these features, life in Samsun combines both traditional and modern elements. The warmth and hospitality of the local people welcomes visitors to the city as well as embracing new settlers. These characteristics make Samsun both a place to live and a place to visit. Thus, Samsun offers a rich cultural experience to both its own people and outsiders.