Armenian Traditions

            Armenians have always succeeded in saving their true culture in which they observe during joyful celebrations and in grief.  They have kept their religion, food , music, and national-old traditions deep in their hearts.  Even today, Armenians have kept certain traditions alive within their lives, such as marriage stability, hospitality, strong relationships with relatives, and honoring of elders. 

            Armenian celebrations is where most of the traditions are expressed.  For Armenians, one of the biggest holidays/events are weddings.  The wedding must have many guests who will witness the couple's promises to each other.  There is also a "God family" present who are the closest couple to the couple getting married.  The bride receives many gifts from the guests, such as money, jewelry, and household items.  Usually the reception of the wedding is a very large celebration.  Someone who is close family to the married couple usually comes to throw money on the couple as they dance.  From the start of the reception to the end, the guests continuously dance and eat.  There is over 30 types of dishes served, starting from appetizers to shish kabob, to fruits and desserts.

            Armenians have a big in honoring the dead when it comes to funerals.  There are many ceremonies arranged for the someone's death.  The ceremonies are usually on the day of the death, the day of the funeral day, the next day. on the seventh day, on the 40th day, and the anniversary of death.  All of the friends and relatives of the individual who passed away, gather around and have a meal together to remember their beloved friend.  The meal together is also a way of celebrating the life of the one who passed away.  The food is always the same for birthdays, funeral, and weddings.  The close friends and relatives also give some money to the dead individual's immediate family.

            Although the Armenian culture consists of different celebrations for different events, the traditions don't seem to change.  The food, rituals, and music is always the same for joyful events.  Although Armenians don't dance during funerals, they eat the same food as they would for a good celebration.  Armenians always remember to respect and honor the ones who are being recognized for the reason of the celebration.

             

 

http://www.advantour.com/armenia/traditions.htm