Armenia's International Tourist Event

Armenia, a landlocked country nestled in the Caucasus Mountains, is a captivating blend of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. From vibrant music festivals to traditional celebrations, it offers a diverse array of events that attract international tourists throughout the year. In the upcoming months, Armenia will host a series of captivating events that will immerse visitors in the country's unique cultural tapestry.

Yerevan Wine Festival

Held annually in the heart of Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, the Yerevan Wine Festival is a vibrant celebration of viniculture and culture. The festival, typically held in late November 22-23,brings together over 70 wineries and winemakers to showcase their finest wines.

Beyond the vast selection of world-class wines, the festival delivers glimpses into Armenia’s profound culture. Folk musicians adorned in regional costumes perform traditional compositions handed down generations, their soulful tunes echoing throughout the venue. Dance troupes in vibrant red, blue and orange garb deliver energetic routines stomping to the frenetic rhythms of duduk oboes and dhol drums. The rich smells of meat skewers, cheese breads and stuffed grape leaves sizzle from food stalls serving classic Armenian cuisine.

Through fine vintages, music and food, the Yerevan Wine Festival encapsulates the sensory and spiritual essences of Armenia. For two days each year, the country opens its doors for visitors eager to taste a civilization centuries in the making.

Christmas Spirit of Yerevan

The country's captivating capital transforms into a winter wonderland, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, heralding the arrival of Christmas. From December 22 to 25, the city comes alive with a vibrant blend of traditional celebrations, heartwarming customs, and a joyous atmosphere that enchants visitors and locals alike.

Christmas in Yerevan is a celebration of love, family, and tradition. From the heartwarming customs and traditional feasts to the festive markets and enchanting performances, the city exudes a magical charm that captures the hearts of visitors and locals alike. It's a time to cherish the spirit of giving, to create lasting memories, and to embrace the joy and warmth of the holiday season.

Areni Wine Festival

Nestled amidst the picturesque hills of Armenia's Vayots Dzor province, the village of Areni comes alive with the annual celebration of winemaking known as the Areni Wine Festival. Typically held in late January, spanning from the 17th to the 19th, this festival is a vibrant homage to Armenia's ancient winemaking heritage, which boasts a history of over 6,000 years. The festival not only offers a sensory delight for wine enthusiasts but also serves as a cultural and historical journey into the heart of Armenia's viticulture.

At the heart of the Areni Wine Festival is the celebrated wine tasting experience, where visitors have the opportunity to sample a diverse array of wines. From the full-bodied reds of Areni Noir, a grape variety indigenous to the region, to the crisp whites of Voskehat, the festival showcases the rich variety of Armenian wines. With over 60 wineries participating from across the country, each presenting their unique blends and terroirs, attendees embark on a tasting journey that reflects the diversity and excellence of Armenia's winemaking traditions.

The Feast of Saint Sarkis.

In the heart of the country , the Feast of Saint Sarkis marks a special day, celebrated with love, devotion, and vibrant festivities. This beloved holiday, typically held on February 14, honours Saint Sarkis, the patron saint of lovers and youth.

Saint Sarkis, an iconic figure in the country lore, symbolises courage, loyalty, and unyielding faith. Renowned as a protector of lovers and young hearts, Saint Sarkis' feast day has evolved into a celebration steeped in love, hope, and the promise of new beginnings.

The Feast of Saint Sarkis heralds a day of jubilation, where joy, vibrant colours, and an aura of love saturate the atmosphere. Young individuals, adorned in their finest attire, congregate in churches and temples to honour Saint Sarkis, seeking his blessings for their romantic aspirations and futures.

The feast is adorned with unique traditions that infuse it with a distinctive charm. On the eve of the celebration, a special ritual unfolds as young girls and boys partake in sarkis aghablit, consuming salty biscuits. 

The Feast of Saint Sarkis embodies the enduring essence of love and the profound significance of youth within the culture. It stands as a moment for young hearts to openly express affection, families to reunite, and the community to unite in revelry and reverence.

Yerevan International Jazz Festival

Yerevan, the vibrant capital of Armenia, comes alive with the soulful notes of jazz during the annual Yerevan International Jazz Festival, a musical extravaganza typically held from February 21 to 23. This captivating event transforms the city into a haven for jazz enthusiasts, drawing them into a world where the streets pulsate to the rhythm of this timeless and diverse musical genre. The festival not only features the talents of renowned international jazz musicians but also provides a stage for local artists, creating a harmonious blend of global and regional jazz expressions.

The Yerevan International Jazz Festival is a musical odyssey that takes attendees on a journey through the rich history and diverse styles of jazz. From the classic sounds reminiscent of jazz legends like Ella Fitzgerald and Miles Davis to the innovative improvisations of modern jazz masters, the festival offers a feast for the ears. 

Beyond the performances, it serves as a celebration of the enduring power of jazz, showcasing its ability to transcend time and borders, uniting people through the universal language of music. With Yerevan as the backdrop, this festival becomes a cultural highlight, where the city's historic charm converges with the soul-stirring melodies of jazz.

Navruz: A Celebration of Renewal and New Beginnings

On March 20, homes and streets across the country are adorned with vibrant decorations, the aroma of traditional dishes fills the air, and the sounds of music and dance echo through the streets, as the country gathers to celebrate renewal, new beginnings, and the triumph of good over evil.

Navruz, deeply ingrained in the culture, traces its roots back to ancient Zoroastrian customs. Symbolising nature's revival, this holiday signifies rebirth, fertility, and the optimism for a flourishing new year.

During Navruz, symbolic rituals and customs passed down through generations come alive. Homes undergo meticulous cleaning and adornment, marking the shedding of old energies and the embrace of fresh starts. 

Navruz traditionally falls on March 20th and is observed across the cities, towns, and villages through open-air revelries and traditional gatherings. Visitors are encouraged to join the festivities, relish the local cuisine, and interact with locals for an authentic Navruz encounter.

FAQS

The event is scheduled to run from November 22nd, 2023, to March 2024.

The event showcases the diverse aspects of the culture, including wine festivals, traditional dances, gastronomy, and music performances. It's an opportunity for visitors to explore Armenian winemaking, indulge in local cuisines, and engage with the vibrant cultural heritage of the country.

The event typically takes place in Armenia's Republic Square in Yerevan.

Visitors can usually purchase a wine tasting passport, granting access to various wines from different wineries. The event offers participation in seminars, workshops, and cultural performances open to all attendees.

Typically, there's a nominal entrance fee to access the event grounds, allowing visitors to enjoy the festivities and various cultural activities.

While the event spans from November 2023 to March 2024, specific schedules for wine tastings, cultural performances, and other activities may be available closer to the event date. Visitors are encouraged to check the official event schedule for detailed information.

For planning purposes, travellers can consider accommodations in Yerevan or nearby areas. They should also look into transportation options and explore additional attractions or activities available in the country during their visit for a comprehensive travel experience.

Embrace the diverse experiences offered, participate in wine tastings, cultural performances, and indulge in the local cuisine. Engaging with locals, learning about traditions, and exploring the rich cultural tapestry of the country can make the event even more enriching.