Today, on July 16, Armenia is celebrating the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord, which is popularly known as Vardavar. The Transfiguration of the Lord is one of the five Great Feasts of the Armenian Apostolic Church and one of the most beloved among the people.
The Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord is celebrated 98 days after Easter, from June 28 to August 1. Vardavar is one of the most important and favorite folk holidays.
According to one version, the word "Vardavar" consists of two roots "vard" – water, and "var" - to wash or water, and means "to douse with water", which is where the custom of pouring water on each other comes from.
Another version says Vardavar (or Vardamat) comes from the word vard [rose in Armenian] and means “to sprinkle with roses.”
The holiday begins early in the morning, everyone pours water on each other, regardless of age, gender and social status.