Armenia: What to Know Before You Go

Cuisine Highlights

• Khorovats, Armenian barbecue; skewered pork, lamb, or chicken grilled over charcoal; the centerpiece of every family gathering and celebration
• Dolma, vine leaves stuffed with spiced lamb and rice; also made with cabbage or eggplant; a dish that carries deep cultural pride
• Lavash, paper-thin flatbread baked on the walls of a tonir (clay oven); UNESCO Intangible Heritage; eaten with every meal and used to wrap food
• Manti, tiny dumplings stuffed with spiced lamb; served with garlic yogurt and sumac; labor-intensive to make and deeply loved

Traditions & Festivals

• Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day (April 24), a deeply solemn national day; over a million people march to the Tsitsernakaberd memorial in Yerevan
• Vardavar, ancient water festival celebrated 98 days after Easter; people drench strangers with water in joyous street celebrations
• Navasard (August), Armenian New Year celebration with music, dance, and archery competitions reviving pre-Christian traditions

Language & Communication

Armenian (Հայերեն) is the official language with its own unique alphabet created in 405 AD. Russian is widely spoken, especially by older generations.

English is growing among younger Armenians in Yerevan. Key phrase: "Barev" (բարև) means hello.

Armenians are exceptionally hospitable, guests are treated with great warmth and often pressed to eat more.

Cultural Etiquette

• Accept food and drink offered by hosts, refusing hospitality is considered rude; say "yes" and eat a little even if not hungry
• The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and relations with Turkey/Azerbaijan are deeply sensitive topics, be respectful and listen more than you speak
• Remove shoes when entering homes, look for a rack of shoes at the entrance as a signal
• Toasting culture is important at meals, wait for the tamada (toastmaster) to lead and clink glasses at every toast