Vardavar: Armenia's Joyful Water Festival

Vardavar is one of Armenia's most unique and beloved celebrations—a day when social norms are suspended and everyone, from children to grandparents, participates in joyful water fights. This ancient festival combines pagan roots with Christian tradition. ## Ancient Origins Vardavar's origins trace back thousands of years to the worship of Astghik, the Armenian goddess of water, beauty, love, and fertility. In pagan Armenia, people would release doves and sprinkle water on each other to honor Astghik and celebrate the power of water to bring life. The name "Vardavar" may derive from "vard" (rose), connecting to the myth that Astghik scattered rose petals over Armenia, which were transformed into sacred waters upon touching the ground. ## Christian Adaptation When Armenia adopted Christianity, the church transformed Vardavar into the Feast of the Transfiguration, commemorating Christ's transfiguration on Mount Tabor. The festival falls 14 weeks after Easter, usually in July. The church reinterpreted the water symbolism to represent baptism and spiritual cleansing. However, the celebratory traditions—particularly water throwing—continued largely unchanged from pagan times. ## How Vardavar is Celebrated On Vardavar, no one is safe from getting wet! People carry buckets, water guns, and bottles, soaking anyone they encounter. Strangers splash each other on the street. Cars slow down to drench pedestrians. Children ambush adults from balconies. The rules are simple: everyone is a target, and no one can get angry about being splashed. The holiday creates a day of permitted mischief and communal joy. Traditional celebrations also include: - Releasing doves (symbols of Astghik) - Church services for the Transfiguration - Family gatherings and feasting - Folk music and dancing ## Social Significance Vardavar creates unusual social dynamics. Normal hierarchies dissolve—children can splash elders, employees can drench bosses. The festival temporarily breaks social barriers, creating communal equality through shared silliness. For the diaspora, Vardavar connects Armenians to ancestral traditions while providing pure fun. Communities worldwide celebrate with water fights, maintaining links to ancient customs. ## Modern Celebrations In Yerevan, Vardavar transforms the city. Republic Square becomes a massive water fight zone. Fire trucks spray crowds. Hotels offer "Vardavar packages" warning guests about the watery chaos outside. The holiday has become a tourist attraction, with visitors specifically timing trips to experience this unique celebration. Social media fills with videos of the aquatic mayhem. ## Tips for Celebrating If you're in Armenia during Vardavar: - Leave electronics at home (or waterproof them) - Wear clothes that can get soaked - Bring your own water supplies - Embrace the chaos—resistance is futile - Remember that everyone, including you, is fair game Vardavar reminds us that joy can be simple: water, laughter, and a day when rules are suspended. This ancient tradition continues to bring Armenians together in celebration of summer, life, and community.