Traditional Armenian Birthday Party

by Sarkis Izmirlian
(Armenia)

Hello, this is Sarkis Izmirlian. Let me tell you about my 23rd birthday in Armenia. I live in USA, but I often go to Armenia on special days. I celebrated my birthday there with my family and old friends.

We usually have our birthday parties in our homes.

Happy birthday is "Tnudat Shnorhavor" in Armenian language. We have many traditional dances, very similar to the nearby countries like Turkey. People normally wear traditional custume clothing when they dance.

A birthday cake surely is eaten. People are very happy and cooperative on birthdays. Neighbors usually bring cakes, pastries, or other special dishes. It is customary for traditional foods to be eaten on birthdays.

Some traditional Armenian foods are dolma, kufta, and pilaf.

Dolma is spiced meat and rice wrapped in grape leaves, like a roll. Kufta is a kind of meatball, and pilaf is traditional Armenian rice, usually served after the meals.

Walnuts are used in most of the Armenian desserts. We had our meal first, then received presents. Most of my presents were gold and traditional things. But a few were more modern, like electronics, and a traveling bag.

This is how I celebrated my birthday in Armenia!

- Sarkis