It might be summer and being the dry season there is no sign of rain but wet weather gear is recommended, just for today! If you like to cool down with a splash or two of water then this is your lucky day!
Vardarvar, is the major summer holiday (The Feast of Water), and the most favourite one for the kids, is strictly observed among Armenians. The festival, rooted back to pagan times, was associated with the goddess Astghik. The name “Vardavar” is derived from “vard” in Armenian - “rose” in English, that people offered to the goddess of water, love, beauty and fertility as a celebration. The festival was held during harvest time in hope that they would have abundant harvest.
Today the holiday represents the Transfiguration of Christ and is celebrated throughout the country on the first Sunday, 14 weeks after Easter. People splash water on each other, irrespective of age and gender. So don’t be surprised if you get soaked while walking in the street. Many children are waiting for passers-by with buckets of water to refresh them on a hot and dry summer day! In fact why not get in on the act, grab a bucket and join the fun!
