Celebrating Vanadzor

Vanadzor Day celebration will take place on October 26. 

Armenia’s third largest city is celebrated every October, starting in 2000.

Concerts, performances and exhibitions will  honor the city, its rich culture and history.

Vanadzor is the capital of the northern Province of Lori.

The city was known as Gharakilisa during the days of the Russian Empire. 

During the Soviet Union, the city was named  Kirovakan and became a thriving industrial town. 

32 industrial enterprises operated there, producing goods for more than 40 countries.

With the collapse of the Soviet Union, the majority of Kirovakan’s industries closed their doors.

The city was renamed Vanadzor in 1992.

But the town has more than one trick up its sleeve. 

Vanadzor is home to many talented artists.

With popular musical groups like Vordan Karmir and Lav Eli. 

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan says it is time to refocus the huge potential the city has to offer. 

And it all starts by celebrating the town itself.

Ani Paitjan