August 11: Day of Armenian National Identity (Armenia)

The Day of Armenian National Identity is observed in the Republic of Armenia on August 11 every year. Also known as Nawasard, this day corresponds to the first day of the ancient Armenian calendar, marking the legendary victory of Hayk, the founder of the Armenian nation, over the Babylonian King Bel. Historically, the first day of Nawasard was celebrated as New Year’s Day, featuring feasting, singing, dances, and sporting competitions. However, after the adoption of Christianity as the state religion, the Hayk calendar was replaced by the Gregorian calendar, leading to the holiday’s decline in observance. The Armenian Revolutionary Federation proposed the revival of this celebration in 2009, which was subsequently supported by the National Assembly of Armenia, though it does not hold the status of a public holiday.

August 11: Day of Armenian National Identity (Armenia)