Top 5 Festivals in Armenia

Here is what you can expect from Armenian festivals: 

• Traditional food and high-quality local wine? Yes!
• Ethnic dances and music? Yes!
• Modern vibes, cheerful colors, and lively celebrations? Yes! A hundred times, yes. 

Armenia's rich cultural heritage is best experienced through its fascinating festivals. So, if you want to fully immerse yourself in the local way of life, make sure to attend at least one festival during your visit. This small country is brimming with cultural events, ranging from traditional dances to contemporary art.

Here are the top five festivals to add to your Armenia itinerary: 

Wine Festival in Areni 

“Why Areni?” you may ask. Areni is considered the birthplace of wine-making culture because the world's oldest winery (6,100 years old) was discovered in Areni Cave. As a result, the Areni Wine Festival celebrates Armenia's ancient wine-making traditions. The festival includes music, dancing, and, of course, wine tasting from all of the wineries in the Vayots Dzor Region that produce this divine drink. A traditional folk-dance performance concludes the event. The Areni wine festival is a great way to learn more about Armenian culture and traditions while also enjoying delicious food and drinks. So, do not miss the opportunity to be part of this beautiful and joyous occasion during your October visit to Armenia!

“Golden Apricot” International Film Festival

Wait, what? Is it July already? The Golden Apricot International Film Festival takes place annually in July!

This is the time of year when filmmakers, artists, and cultural organizations from all over the world convene in Yerevan for cultural exchange and cooperation. Why the name "Golden Apricot"? Because the apricot is the national symbol of Armenia, and it is golden because it shines as brightly as any other winning award. The "Golden Apricot" International Film Festival is yet another reason to visit Yerevan and enjoy the city's cultural boom. The festival promotes cultural events such as concerts, exhibitions, workshops, masterclasses, and theater performances in addition to film screenings. Most importantly, the film festival is open to the public. As a result, you can purchase tickets in advance or on the day of the screening and enjoy the festival's cultural offerings.

Barbeque Festival in Akhtala

Akhtala is a village in northern Armenia known for its medieval church with frescoes. This is also where foodies and culture junkies gather each year for the Barbeque Festival. The Akhtala Barbeque Festival is a fun way to spend the weekend. This festival is worth attending if you're looking for something unique but with a touch of tradition. During the festival, you can sample mouthwatering Armenian barbeque, enjoy live music and performances, take part in a cooking workshop, tour the Akhtala Monastery and its unique architecture, shop from locals in the small market, and understand and learn more about Armenian culture and traditions.

Sky Ball Festival

Imagine hundreds of hot air balloons floating in the sky, creating a stunning and whimsical landscape that will make you feel like you're walking through a dream. Excited and mesmerized – that’s the feeling you will have when you attend the Sky Ball Festival in Armenia. Enjoy the best Armenian cuisine, live music that will make you dance, and breathtaking views. And don't forget about the most exciting part: hot air balloon rides! Soar through the air while admiring the breathtaking scenery below, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Yerevan Color Fest

Last but not least, the Yerevan Color Fest is another bright and cheerful festival you should attend while in Armenia. Similar to other countries around the globe, each year people get together to paint the city in bright colors. Yerevan Color Fest is a relatively new festival in Armenia, but locals already love it, and you will definitely love it too. 

Finally, the best way to understand Armenia is to immerse yourself in its culture. I hope these five festivals will assist you in doing so!