Եվա Միքայելյան

Easter or “Zatik” in Armenia is one of the most colorful, joyful celebrations of the year. With traditions dating back thousands of years, visitors are invited to church ceremonies, to participate in community events, to feast like the locals and enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the region. Incense wafts from inside candlelit cathedrals, Easter eggs are dyed, often in dark red for the blood of Christ. Voices everywhere are raised in greeting and response of “Krisdos haryav ee merelotz!” – Christ is risen!” and “Orhnyal eh harootiunun Krisdosee!” – “Blessed is the resurrection of Christ!” while Easter eggs are cracked together! Sweet bread is shared and the table is decorated with colored eggs nestled in dishes of fresh spring grass. Armenia is filled with ancient temples, monasteries and churches, rich sacred and historical sites and the Holy Week of Easter is the most important time in this most ancient of Christian cultures. 

Easter Surprise
Easter eggs,
Yellow and blue,
Easter eggs,
For me and you.
Easter eggs,
Candy sweet,
Easter eggs,
Are good to eat.
Easter eggs,
Pretty and funny,
But… where is the Easter Bunny?

Easter
The Easter Bunny’s feet
Go hop, hop, hop,
While his big pink ears
Go flop, flop, flop.
He is rushing on his way
To bring our eggs on Easter Day,
With a hop, flop, hop, flop, hop.