Calendar of festivals and holidays

* Festivals are planned for the beginning of the year, however, changes in the schedule are possible, including cancellation or postponement of some events. For exact information, please contact us in advance by phone or write to us.

NEW YEAR (AMANOR)

  • When: December 31 – January 2
  • Where: The main festivities take place in Yerevan's Republic Square, but New Year's is celebrated throughout the country.
  • What to bring: Warm clothes for street walks, gifts for loved ones and dishes for the festive table.

New Year is a time when Armenians gather with their families at the festive table. Traditionally, the table contains dishes symbolizing luck, health and well-being. Families decorate their homes, light candles and congratulate each other on the coming year. The holiday lasts for several days and ends with the Christmas holidays.

The New Year in Armenia, known as Amanor, has been celebrated since ancient times. Before the adoption of Christianity, this holiday was dedicated to Amanor, the god of fertility and the new year. With the adoption of Christianity in 301, Amanor received new symbols, but retained its traditions associated with the beginning of a new stage of life and renewal.

Armenians begin celebrating the New Year on the evening of December 31. At this time, traditional dishes such as dolma, lavash and khash are prepared, symbolizing health and abundance in the coming year. It is customary to exchange gifts and visit loved ones. Another important part of the holiday is the meeting of Dzmer Papik, the Armenian Santa Claus, who brings gifts to children.

CHRISTMAS (SURB TSNUND)

  • When: January 6 (official holiday)
  • Where: Celebrations take place in all churches of Armenia, especially in Echmiadzin, the spiritual center of the country.
  • What to take with you: Candles for the church, a vessel for holy water, traditional treats for the festive table.

On the evening of January 5, a solemn service begins in all Armenian churches. Blessed water is considered a symbol of spiritual purification and protection, and is brought home for blessing. On January 6, families gather around the festive table, sharing the joy of Christmas and remembering the spiritual meaning of the holiday.

Christmas in Armenia is celebrated on January 6, combining it with Epiphany. This is one of the most important religious events, which dates back to the time of the adoption of Christianity in Armenia in 301. Armenian Christmas traditions differ from Western ones, as Armenia follows the ancient church calendar.

On the eve of Christmas, January 5, believers gather in churches for the evening liturgy. On this day, the water is blessed, symbolizing the Baptism of Christ in the Jordan River. On January 6, families gather at the festive table, where fish, pilaf and traditional dishes are served. A special role is given to the blessed water, which is brought home to bless the home.

ARMY DAY

  • When: January 28 (official holiday)
  • Where: Parades and events take place in Yerevan, Gyumri and other major cities.
  • What to bring with you: Flowers to lay at the memorials and the Armenian flag.

Army Day is a celebration of courage and patriotism, when Armenians express gratitude and respect to their servicemen. Parades and ceremonies remind us of the importance of defending the homeland and the honor of being a soldier of Armenia.

Army Day is celebrated on January 28, the day when the National Army of the Republic of Armenia was created in 1992. This day was established to honor those who defend the independence and territorial integrity of the country. The holiday reflects patriotic feelings and pride in Armenian soldiers.

Every year, military parades, concerts and ceremonies take place across the country. People lay flowers at memorials to honor fallen soldiers. Veterans and active service members meet with citizens, sharing their stories and memories.