Calendar of festivals and holidays in May

* 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.

LABOR DAY

  • When: May 1st.
  • Where: Parks and natural areas throughout Armenia, as well as city squares.
  • What to bring: Picnic set, food and drinks for outdoor recreation.

May Day in Armenia has become a day when people can take a break from work and spend time with their families in nature. Many people have picnics and enjoy the spring atmosphere. Some cities host festive events dedicated to labor and its importance in society. This day is a great opportunity to celebrate the importance of all workers and express gratitude to them.

Labor Day, also known as May Day, was founded in memory of workers’ struggle for their rights. In Armenia, this day has become a symbol of recognition of each person’s work and contribution to the development of the country. May Day has retained its traditions since Soviet times, when it was celebrated with mass demonstrations and parades.

Today, Labor Day is celebrated in a more relaxed atmosphere. Families gather outdoors for picnics and recreation. Some cities still hold marches and demonstrations dedicated to workers, as well as cultural events organized to honor labor.

VICTORY DAY

  • When: May 9 (official day off).
  • Where: The main events take place in Yerevan at the Mother Armenia Monument.
  • What to take with you: Flowers to lay at the monuments.

On May 9, Armenians honor the memory of the heroic soldiers who fought for victory in World War II. Parades are held on the main streets of Yerevan, veterans meet with young people, telling stories of their exploits. The holiday is accompanied by concerts and festive events, but the main goal is to preserve the memory of those who sacrificed their lives for peace.

 Veterans of the Great Patriotic War march through the streets of Yerevan, and people lay flowers at monuments and memorials such as the Yerablur Pantheon and the Mother Armenia Monument. The day is marked by military parades, demonstrations of military equipment and festive concerts.

Today, Labor Day is celebrated in a more relaxed atmosphere. Families gather outdoors for picnics and recreation. Some cities still hold marches and demonstrations dedicated to workers, as well as cultural events organized to honor labor.

ASCENSION DAY (AMBARTZUM)

  • When: 40th day after Easter (date changes annually).
  • Where: The holiday is celebrated throughout Armenia, especially in rural areas. Outdoor picnics are popular.
  • What to bring: Wildflowers for making wreaths, picnic treats.

On Ascension Day, Armenian families gather in nature, weave wreaths and spend time with loved ones. Young people organize festivities and dance in circles. On this day, nature symbolizes spiritual renewal and the beginning of a new stage in life. Hambardzum is a holiday that unites religious and secular traditions, creating an atmosphere of joy and unity.

Ascension Day, or Hambardzum, is one of the most ancient and revered holidays in Armenia. It is dedicated to the Ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven on the 40th day after his Resurrection. The roots of the holiday go back to pre-Christian times, when the approach of summer and the revival of nature were celebrated. After the adoption of Christianity, this day became a symbol of spiritual elevation and joy.

Ambartsum is associated with various folk rituals. The main tradition is weaving wreaths of wild flowers, which symbolize purity and spiritual renewal. On this day, girls put on wreaths, collect flowers and organize folk festivities. There are also traditions of fortune telling for the groom: girls collect water from seven different sources, believing in its magical power.

DAY OF THE FIRST REPUBLIC

  • When: May 28 (official day off).
  • Where: The main events take place in Yerevan and other major cities, with parades, concerts and cultural programs.
  • What to take with you: Flags and symbols of Armenia, flowers to lay at memorials.

First Republic Day is a solemn day when Armenians remember their fight for independence. Thousands of people take to the streets to take part in festive processions, lay flowers at monuments and take part in concerts. The holiday emphasizes the importance of national unity and freedom, which have become key values ​​of the Armenian people.

On May 28, 1918, Armenia declared independence after centuries of foreign rule. This day became a turning point in the country’s history, when the Armenian people, despite all the difficulties, managed to defend their freedom. Although the First Republic existed for only two years, its significance for Armenia is enormous.

The First Republic Day is accompanied by ceremonial events, concerts and military parades. On this day, Armenians honor their ancestors who fought for the country’s independence. Schools hold history lessons dedicated to this day, and festive processions take place throughout the country.