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When planning a vacation in Armenia, many tourists dream of seeing ancient monasteries, beautiful mountains, majestic Ararat, picturesque Lake Sevan, and sampling the famous Armenian cuisine. But there’s one event that truly captures the country’s flavor: Vardavar. It’s arguably the country’s most joyful, vibrant, and unusual holiday, when city streets transform into a vast playground for water sports. If you’re planning a summer tour to Armenia, be sure to book it during this time.
On this day, it’s customary in Armenia to pour water on everyone without exception: friends, neighbors, passersby, and even tourists. Refusing or taking offense is unacceptable—on the contrary, water is believed to bring good luck, purification, and prosperity. Therefore, if you find yourself on Vardavar, be prepared—it’s practically impossible to stay dry. It’s best to put your phone in a waterproof case beforehand and simply enjoy the atmosphere of general joy.
The history of the holiday dates back to ancient times. Even in pagan times, Vardavar was dedicated to Astghik, the goddess of love, beauty, and water. After the adoption of Christianity, the tradition was preserved, and the holiday itself began to be celebrated in honor of the Transfiguration of the Lord, remaining one of the most beloved and anticipated events in the Armenian calendar. Today, it is celebrated 14 weeks after Easter and unites ancient traditions and Christian culture.
How Vardavar is celebrated
The main events unfold in Yerevan. From early morning, the streets, courtyards, squares, and parks fill with people carrying buckets, bottles, water pistols, and hoses. In a matter of minutes, the entire city becomes part of the grand celebration.
Music, dancing, smiles, and laughter create an incredible atmosphere in which it’s impossible to remain a bystander. Even employees of cafes, shops, and offices often come out into the streets to join in the festivities.
Tourists from all over the world eagerly join the celebration, as it’s a rare opportunity to become part of a true Armenian tradition, rather than just observing it from the outside.
Many cities host folk festivals, concerts, craft exhibitions, and tastings of national dishes. Therefore, summer tours to Armenia during Vardavar allow you not only to experience the country’s culture but also to become a part of it.
Why tourists dream of visiting Vardavar
There are few holidays in the world where thousands of strangers genuinely rejoice among each other, and the main symbol is ordinary water. This is precisely why Vardavar evokes so many emotions in travelers.
During the festival, you can see a completely different Armenia – open, cheerful, hospitable, and incredibly friendly. It’s easy to make new acquaintances, take vivid photographs, and create memories that will stay with you for years to come.
What to see in Armenia in the summer
If you’re visiting Vardavar, you can combine your trip with a visit to the country’s most famous landmarks.
Yerevan, one of the oldest cities in the world; the pagan temple of Garni and the rock-cut Geghard Monastery; the high-altitude Lake Sevan;
Khor Virap Monastery with its legendary view of Mount Ararat; wineries and gastronomic routes with tastings of Armenian wines and cognac.
This is the best time for mountain hiking and jeep tours.
This vacation combines a rich excursion program, active recreation, an introduction to ancient history, and participation in one of the world’s most unusual holidays.
We invite you to Armenia!
If you’re planning a summer trip to Armenia, try to choose dates that coincide with Vardavar. This isn’t just a holiday—it’s a day when the entire country becomes one big, happy family. These moments linger in your memory far longer than photographs and souvenirs.
Our programs include comfortable accommodation, professional guides, visits to the country’s main attractions, and the opportunity to participate in the most joyful celebration of the Armenian summer.
Vardavar is more than just a holiday. It’s about emotions, traditions, the joy of socializing, and memories that will last a lifetime. Discover Armenia with us!
Give yourself the opportunity to see Armenia as it truly is, a true, and hospitable place. Choose tours during Vardavar and discover the country at its most vibrant!
In 2026, Vardavar will be celebrated on July 12.
photo: Andranik Keshishyan