Public Holidays in Armenia 2026 – National, Orthodox & Cultural Holidays
Armenia observes a rich calendar of public holidays that highlight its Christian heritage, national pride, and deep historical identity. These celebrations honor significant events from Armenia’s past and major feast days of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Many holidays also inspire travel and cultural exploration, supported by guides like places to visit in Armenia and recommendations for the best hotels in Armenia.
Overview of Public Holidays in Armenia
Armenia’s public holidays combine religious observances, national commemorations, and historical milestones. As the first country to adopt Christianity as a state religion in 301 AD, many holidays revolve around Apostolic Church traditions. Schools, banks, and government institutions close during these holidays, while families gather for church attendance, cultural ceremonies, and community events.
List of Public Holidays in Armenia (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday | Beginning of the new year; celebrated with family gatherings. |
| New Year’s Holidays | January 2–4 | Friday–Sunday | Extended national festive break. |
| Christmas Day (Armenian Apostolic) | January 6 | Tuesday | Commemorates both the birth and baptism of Jesus Christ. |
| Army Day | January 28 | Wednesday | Honors Armenia’s Armed Forces. |
| International Women’s Day | March 8 | Sunday | Cultural celebration of women’s contributions. |
| Genocide Remembrance Day | April 24 | Friday | Honors victims of the 1915 Armenian Genocide. |
| Labor Day | May 1 | Friday | Celebrates workers’ rights and labor achievements. |
| Victory and Peace Day | May 9 | Saturday | Commemorates WWII victory and peace in Armenia. |
| Republic Day | May 28 | Thursday | Marks the establishment of the First Republic of Armenia (1918). |
| Constitution Day | July 5 | Sunday | Celebrates the adoption of the Armenian Constitution (1995). |
| Transfiguration (Vardavar) | July 12 | Sunday | Feast of Christ’s Transfiguration; known for water-splashing traditions. |
| Holy Assumption of Mary | August 16 | Sunday | Armenian feast day honoring the Virgin Mary with fruit blessings. |
| Independence Day | September 21 | Monday | Celebrates Armenia’s independence from the Soviet Union (1991). |
| New Year’s Eve | December 31 | Thursday | End of the calendar year, celebrated nationwide. |
List of Public Holidays in Armenia (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Marks the beginning of the new year. |
| New Year’s Holidays | January 2–4 | Thursday–Saturday | Extended national celebration period for the new year. |
| Christmas Day (Armenian Apostolic) | January 6 | Monday | Celebrates the birth and baptism of Jesus Christ. |
| Army Day | January 28 | Tuesday | Honors the Armenian Armed Forces, established in 1992. |
| International Women’s Day | March 8 | Saturday | Celebrates women’s social and cultural achievements. |
| Genocide Remembrance Day | April 24 | Thursday | Commemorates the victims of the 1915 Armenian Genocide. |
| Labor Day | May 1 | Thursday | Honors workers and labor rights. |
| Victory and Peace Day | May 9 | Friday | Marks the victory in World War II and national peace. |
| Republic Day | May 28 | Wednesday | Celebrates the establishment of the First Republic of Armenia (1918). |
| Constitution Day | July 5 | Saturday | Marks the adoption of Armenia’s modern constitution in 1995. |
| Transfiguration (Vardavar) | July 20 | Sunday | Religious feast celebrating Christ’s Transfiguration, known for traditional water festivals. |
| Independence Day | September 21 | Sunday | Commemorates Armenia’s independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. |
| Holy Assumption of Mary | August 17 | Sunday | Celebrates the Virgin Mary’s assumption; families bring fruits to church for blessing. |
| New Year’s Eve | December 31 | Wednesday | Marks the closing of the year with family gatherings and celebrations. |
Religious and Cultural Significance
Armenia’s holidays reflect the nation’s enduring Christian traditions and its historic resilience. Observances such as Christmas on January 6 and Vardavar are deeply rooted in Apostolic teachings, while national holidays like Genocide Remembrance Day and Independence Day commemorate major milestones in Armenia’s journey as a nation.
Public Observances and Closures
Government offices, banks, and educational institutions close during all official holidays. Public transportation runs at reduced frequency. Cities such as Yerevan, Gyumri, and Vanadzor host cultural events, church ceremonies, and public gatherings, especially on April 24 when thousands visit the Tsitsernakaberd Genocide Memorial.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Armenia have?
Armenia observes about 12–14 official public holidays each year, including major national and religious events.
When does Armenia celebrate Christmas?
Armenia celebrates Christmas on January 6, following the ancient Christian tradition that combines Christ’s birth and baptism.
What is Republic Day in Armenia?
Republic Day on May 28 marks the founding of the First Republic of Armenia in 1918.
Why is April 24 significant in Armenia?
April 24 is Genocide Remembrance Day, honoring the victims of the 1915 Armenian Genocide with national ceremonies and memorial visits.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Armenia highlight a powerful blend of faith, tradition, and national identity. From sacred church feasts to solemn historical remembrances, each holiday reflects the values and resilience of the Armenian people. Many residents also use these days for cultural exploration, often inspired by travel guides such as places to visit in Armenia and curated lists of the best hotels in Armenia.
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