🦃 Early Thanksgiving Dinner Unites 40+ Organizations Across Northern Virginia

ATFA Hosts an Inspiring Community, Interfaith, and Cultural Celebration

The American Turkish Friendship Association (ATFA) proudly hosted its Early Thanksgiving Dinner on November 20 in Fairfax, Virginia — bringing together representatives from over 40 faith-based, cultural, business, nonprofit, and community organizations. The event created a warm and welcoming atmosphere centered on gratitude, interfaith friendship, diversity, and community service.

Guests shared excellent feedback, noting the strong sense of connection, hospitality, and meaningful conversations throughout the evening.

🌟 Event Highlights

🥫 Food for Others Presentation & Community Food Drive

ATFA partnered with Food for Others, one of Northern Virginia’s leading hunger-relief organizations, for an impactful presentation on food insecurity. Attendees contributed generous food donations and gift cards, supporting families across Fairfax County and the region.

✒️ Cultural Activities: Calligraphy & Community Raffles

Guests enjoyed traditional Turkish calligraphy, raffles, and cultural displays that highlighted ATFA’s commitment to intercultural understanding, creativity, and community engagement.

🎶 Live Music & Warm Community Spirit

Live music created a joyful, uplifting atmosphere that encouraged conversations, friendship-building, and connection among guests from many backgrounds.

🍽️ Delicious Turkish Cuisine

A variety of homemade Turkish dishes prepared by dedicated ATFA volunteers became one of the most praised elements of the night, offering guests a taste of authentic Turkish hospitality.

🤝 Strengthening Interfaith and Community Partnerships

This year’s Early Thanksgiving Dinner demonstrated ATFA’s ongoing mission to build bridges between communities, foster interfaith dialogue, and support local service initiatives in Northern Virginia.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all guests, volunteers, partners, elected officials, and community leaders who helped make this event a success.

ATFA looks forward to hosting more programs that promote friendship, cultural exchange, community service, and civic engagement.