Victory and Peace Day in Armenia

Victory and Peace Day, known as "Victory Day" or "Հաղթանակի և խաղաղական օր" in Armenian, is a significant public holiday in Armenia. This day commemorates the victory of the Soviet Union and its allies, including Armenia, over Nazi Germany in World War II.

Victory and Peace Day is celebrated annually on May 9th, coinciding with the day when Nazi Germany officially surrendered to the Soviet Union in 1945.

History

The celebration of Victory and Peace Day in Armenia started on May 9, 1945, alongside other Soviet Union countries, to mark the end of World War II. Armenia, as a part of the Soviet Union, contributed significantly to the defeat of Nazi Germany. Many Armenians fought in the Red Army, and their sacrifices are remembered and honored on this day.

Customs

National customs for Victory and Peace Day in Armenia

Victory and Peace Day is a public holiday in Armenia, and people celebrate with various national customs. The day typically begins with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Victory Park in Yerevan, where the Eternal Flame burns in memory of the fallen soldiers. High-ranking officials, war veterans, and citizens participate in this ceremony to pay their respects.

Parades and military processions are also held in various cities across the country, showcasing the Armenian military's strength and honoring the veterans who fought in the war. In recent years, the event has also been marked by the "Immortal Regiment" march, where people carry portraits of their relatives who fought in World War II.

Families gather together on this day to remember their loved ones who took part in the war and to spend time together in unity and celebration of peace. Concerts, fireworks displays, and other cultural events are also organized across the country to mark the occasion.

Local customs for Victory and Peace Day in Armenia

Local customs for Victory and Peace Day in Armenia may vary from one region to another, but they generally involve gatherings with family and friends, sharing stories about the war, and honoring the memory of the fallen soldiers. In some regions, people visit the graves of their relatives who fought in the war, light candles, and lay flowers as a sign of respect and remembrance.

In addition to these customs, many local communities organize various cultural events, exhibitions, and performances to commemorate the day and celebrate the victory and peace achieved after the war.

Conclusion

Victory and Peace Day is an essential holiday in Armenia, honoring the sacrifices made by the Armenian people during World War II and celebrating the victory over Nazi Germany. Through national and local customs, the people of Armenia come together to remember their history and celebrate peace, unity, and the resilience of their nation.