Every people has its own traditions and feasts, blending religious meaning with folk colour. One of the most vivid and beloved feasts of the Armenian tradition is Vartavar, which coincides with the Christian feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord. Although its roots are ancient and pagan, Vartavar is today celebrated by Armenians throughout the world as a symbol of renewal, light and joy.
🕊️ What is Vartavar?
After the adoption of Christianity in Armenia (in 301 – the first Christian state in the world), the Church adapted this ancient custom and linked it to the Transfiguration of the Lord – the day on which Jesus Christ was transfigured before three of His disciples (Peter, James and John), revealing to them His divine nature.
Vartavar (in Armenian: Վարդավառ) comes from the words “vard” – rose, and “varel” – to pour. According to one account, the feast was in antiquity dedicated to Astghik, the goddess of love and fertility. In her honour wreaths of roses were thrown and water was sprinkled.
✝️ The Transfiguration in Christianity
The Transfiguration of the Lord is celebrated on different dates in the various Christian traditions:
- In the Eastern Orthodox Church – on 6 August (new style) / 19 August (old style).
- In the Armenian Apostolic Church – the feast has no fixed date, but is observed fourteen weeks after Easter, usually at the end of July.
On this day a festal liturgy is celebrated, grapes and fruit are blessed, and the faithful gather in the churches to pray for enlightenment and spiritual transfiguration.
🎉 Who celebrates their name day on Vartavar?
Since Vartavar coincides with the Transfiguration, name days are celebrated by:
Vartuhi, Vartanush, Vart, Nvart, Zvart, Sirvart, Lusvart, Alvart, Baydzar, Varvara, Vartig, Zarvart, Varto, Vartkes, Varteres, Badrig
🌺 A feast of soul and water
Vartavar is a feast that unites deep spiritual meaning with unaffected human merriment. It reminds us that faith sometimes lies not only in silence and prayer, but also in laughter, joy and sharing.
Whether you mark it religiously or simply join in the drenching – Vartavar is a time to be refreshed: with water, with hope and with love of life.
A blessed feast to you!