Turkish locals celebrate the start of spring with Hidirellez festival

The colourful festival marks the return of spring with dance, music and bonfires in the Turkish town of Edirne. (Photo: AP)

A man releases a lantern during celebrations for the 'Hidirellez' festival in Edirne in Turkey. (Photo: AP)

A woman dances during celebrations marking the start of Spring in Turkey. (Photo: AP)

A woman poses for photographs by a tree, decorated with ribbons and wishes during celebrations for the 'Hidirellez' festival. (Photo: AP)

People dance during the 'Hidirellez' festival celebrating the start of Spring. (Photo: AP)

People gather on a bridge across the Tundzha River during celebrations for the 'Hidirellez' festival in Edirne, Turkey. (Photo: AP)

A couple poses for photographs by the Tundzha River during celebrations for the 'Hidirellez' festival(Photo: AP)

A woman dances during 'Hidirellez' festival celebrations in Edirne. (Photo: AP)