Language/Armenian/Culture/Armenian-Holidays-and-Festivals

Armenian → Culture → Armenian Holidays and Festivals

As an Armenian language teacher with 20 years of experience, I believe that learning a language goes beyond just memorizing grammar rules and vocabulary. It's essential to understand the culture and traditions of the people who speak that language. In this lesson, we will explore the cultural significance and practices of popular Armenian holidays and festivals.

Holidays and Festivals

Armenia has a rich cultural heritage dating back to ancient times. The country's numerous holidays and festivals showcase its diverse traditions, beliefs, and customs. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Armenian Christmas

Unlike most Christians who celebrate Christmas on December 25th, the Armenian Apostolic Church observes Christmas on January 6th. This date commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River. The week leading up to Armenian Christmas, called "Avak Shapat" or "The Holy Week," is a time of fasting, praying, and performing rituals.

On Christmas day, Armenians attend church ceremonies, light candles, and burn incense. They also prepare traditional dishes like "khorovats" (grilled meat) and "basturma" (cured beef) for the festive meals. During the Christmas season, children dress up and go door-to-door singing Armenian carols and receiving gifts.

New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve is a worldwide celebration, and Armenia is no exception. Armenians celebrate the arrival of the New Year on December 31st with fireworks, concerts, and festive dinners. Families come together to share a meal and exchange gifts. At midnight, Armenians light sparklers and jump over bonfires, symbolizing leaving the old year and entering the new with positive energy.

One of the most popular New Year's traditions is making "tarehats," which are small cards with wishes written in advance. On New Year's Eve, people gather around a table, light a candle, and place their tarehats beneath it. The cards burn, and the wishes are said to come true.

Easter

Easter, also known as "Zatik" in Armenian, is one of the most important Christian holidays celebrated in Armenia. This day marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is observed in April. In the week leading up to Easter, many Armenians will fast and attend church services.

On Easter day, Armenians serve a traditional sweet bread called "chorag" and dyed eggs. The eggs are dyed red, symbolizing the blood of Jesus Christ. Armenian families prepare a feast, which includes dishes like "dolma" (stuffed grape leaves), "kufta" (meatballs), and "kata" (a pastry made with layers of phyllo dough and cheese).

Vardavar

Vardavar, also known as "the Festival of Water," is an ancient Armenian holiday that dates back to pagan times. Armenians celebrate Vardavar on the 14th of July (or the 98th day of the Armenian calendar).

The main activity of Vardavar is dousing one another with water. People carry buckets, water guns, and even place water balloons in strategic locations to ambush their friends and family members. It's a fun and joyous holiday that brings people together.

Conclusion

Learning about Armenian holidays and festivals is an excellent way to gain insight into the country's culture and traditions. It's worth noting that Armenia has many other celebrations, each with its unique practices and customs. As a beginner-level student, it's essential to focus on the basics, but keep in mind that immersing yourself in the language and culture is key to becoming fluent.

Related Lessons

• Armenians in Diaspora
• Armenian Cuisine
• Armenian Churches and Monasteries
• Armenian Footballers and Basketball Players
• Armenia Timeline
• Armenian National Instruments
• Armenian Pop Music
• Armenian Actors and Celebrities
• Chess and Chess Players
• Wrestling and Weightlifting

Sources

• Armenian Holidays and Traditions [2020 - Wild Armenia]
• Armenian Holiday Traditions - The Armenian Mirror-Spectator