Forcibly Displaced Armenians Recreate Artsakh in Yerevan, Celebrating Their Cultural Legacy
On September 7, 2024, a special cultural event titled "WE ARE, OUR ARTSAKH" took place at Dream Park in Yerevan, Armenia. This gathering was a heartfelt celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Artsakh (also known as Nagorno-Karabakh), designed to unite people in a spirit of shared national identity, tradition, and community. Hosted against the backdrop of Artsakh's ongoing struggle for recognition and peace, the event aimed to reinforce the bonds between the people of Armenia and Artsakh through the power of culture.
Ani Khachatryan from The Armenian Report attended the event, capturing its vibrant atmosphere. It was clear that this celebration went beyond a simple festival. The purpose of the day was to remind everyone of the shared identity and collective spirit that binds the Armenian people to Artsakh. Attendees were invited to experience life as it is in Artsakh, to be immersed in its customs, music, and flavors. It was a day to remember the beauty of Artsakh’s traditions and strengthen ties under a single, warm roof of national solidarity.
"We will live together for one day with the spirit and culture of Artsakh," one organizer shared, emphasizing the goal of the event. The idea was to create an atmosphere where people could not only enjoy cultural performances and food but also connect emotionally and support each other in their shared national cause.
The event featured various performances, showcasing the folk music and dance of Artsakh. National groups from Artsakh entertained the audience with songs and dances that have been passed down through generations, providing a window into the deep-rooted culture of the region.
Among the many performances were the Artsakh National Orchestra, the Artsakh Verses Ensemble, and the Artsakh State Song-Dance Ensemble, known as "We Are Our Mountains." These performances showed the resilience of Artsakh’s people, as well as their dedication to preserving their cultural legacy even amid difficult times.
Students from the Stepanakert Children and Youth Creative Center also took part, displaying their talents alongside seasoned performers. The Voices of Artsakh group, students from the Artsakh Tsil Puppet Theater, and artists Artem Walter, Gaya Arzumanyan, and Artur Khachents lent their voices and performances to the festivities, contributing to the day's colorful array of cultural displays.
No cultural celebration would be complete without food, and "WE ARE, OUR ARTSAKH" was no exception. Visitors were treated to a taste of Artsakh through its traditional cuisine, with an array of signature dishes available to sample. Popular dishes like gata (a traditional sweet bread), jingyalov hats (a flatbread stuffed with herbs), and kurkut (a hearty wheat-based dish) were prepared and served throughout the day, offering guests a chance to savor the unique flavors of the region.
In addition to food, the event featured several interactive opportunities. Various masterclasses were held, allowing attendees to learn more about traditional Artsakh crafts and practices. There were stations where people could try their hand at making traditional handicrafts, while others offered the chance to dress up in national costumes and take commemorative photos.
The event also included a market area where Artsakh-themed pavilions were set up, offering a range of goods and handicrafts from the region. Visitors had the opportunity to browse through stalls filled with locally made products, including handmade crafts, traditional clothing, and Artsakh-grown food items. It was a way not only to celebrate but also to support the artisans and small businesses of Artsakh, many of whom rely on these products as a means of economic livelihood.
The fair was a bustling part of the day, filled with vibrant colors, sounds, and the aroma of Artsakh’s cuisine. It brought together visitors of all ages, eager to learn more about the culture, purchase unique items, and engage with the people behind the crafts.
"WE ARE, OUR ARTSAKH" served as a reminder of the unbreakable connection between Armenia and Artsakh. In a time when the region faces occupation, this event showed the importance of preserving and celebrating Artsakh’s heritage. Through music, dance, food, and crafts, the event was a tribute to the people of Artsakh and their enduring spirit.
As attendees departed from Dream Park, they left with a stronger sense of unity and pride in their shared history. The event wasn’t just about celebrating culture, but also about reinforcing the resilience and love that binds Armenians and Artsakh people together. It was a testament to the power of culture in bringing people together, even in the most challenging times.
In the words of one participant, "Today, we are reminded that Artsakh lives in all of us, and we will continue to celebrate it, protect it, and share its beauty with the world."
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