October 13, 2013 — “Bread Festival” in Gyumri

October 13, 2013 — “The Bread Festival” in Gyumri

On October 13, Gyumri was filled with festive excitement as the city celebrated “Gyumri Day.” The opening notes of the festivities were heard in the courtyard of the “Yntaniq” Children and Youth Creative Center, where the soulful songs of Sheram and the spirited dances of Shaboyan filled the air.

The “Yntaniq” Children and Youth Creative Center is one of those authentic strongholds of Armenian national traditions where every effort is made to preserve and enrich national identity and cultural heritage. The Center welcomed public, political, and cultural figures, clergy, and other distinguished guests.

The people of Gyumri greeted the guests with bread and salt, accompanied by the music of zurna and dhol. Everywhere there was music and singing, joy and celebration.

The festivities dedicated to the city’s day continued in the courtyard of the Museum of Folk Architecture and Urban Life, where “The Bread Festival” and a demonstration of traditional everyday life were held.

Bread, as a sacred creation of the Armenian people, was reflected in the diverse handicrafts created by the students of the “Yntaniq” Children and Youth Creative Center and displayed during the event, celebrating the essence of the occasion—national traditions, folk culture, and traditional rituals.

With its traditional way of life, beautiful arts and crafts, Gyumri is one of the beloved cities of the Armenian people and a source of pride for the people of Shirak.

Seda Hakobyan