SPRINGFIELD — For decades, Armenian Fest has been a beloved tradition at St. Mark’s Armenian Church.
What started as a small picnic among parishioners has blossomed into a celebration that now welcomes the entire Greater Springfield community.
“St. Mark Armenian Fest is a nearly 40-year tradition for our parish,” said Talene Jermakian, a lifelong parishioner and fest volunteer. “It gives our parish great joy to be able to share our food and culture with our larger community.”
This year’s festival promises a feast of flavors and entertainment. On the menu are hot meals such as Losh Kebab — an Armenian lamb and beef burger seasoned with herbs and spices — along with Pork and Chicken Kebab, all served with rice pilaf. Visitors can also indulge in an impressive spread of sweets, including paklava, Armenian Gata and Khadayif, along with savory favorites like Yalanchi (stuffed grape leaves) and Armenian string cheese. “And of course,” Jermakian added, “Armenian coffee.”
The celebration isn’t just about food. A live Armenian band will perform traditional folk music from noon to 5 p.m., featuring instruments like the oud, dumbeg, clarinet and guitar. New this year, DJ Gena will keep the music going until 7 p.m. with a mix of modern Armenian and international tunes. “We’re extending our hours until 7 p.m. this year,” said Jermakian. “With the added entertainment, we hope that people will come early and stay for dinner to enjoy all that is being offered.”
Cultural traditions remain at the heart of the festival. Recipes handed down through generations are prepared by parishioners during workshops throughout the summer, and the church community spends months planning every detail. “It really is a huge undertaking because we are a small parish, and it’s amazing what we’re able to accomplish to put on a fest of this size,” Jermakian said. “When we see all of these efforts culminate in a successful day that all enjoy, it brings us so much joy and makes us very proud.”
Returning this year is a genealogy and ancestry booth curated by parishioner Kristen Fraser, who has gathered photos and stories tracing the history of Armenians in Springfield. Visitors can also browse Armenian artwork, jewelry, spices and bags for sale.
Several new additions await festivalgoers this year. Homemade madzoon yogurt, lavash bread and imported Armenian wine will be available, with bottles for purchase to take home. On Saturday, Aug. 30, the evening before the Fest, St. Mark’s will host an Armenian Wine Tasting from 7-9 p.m. Tickets are available at stmarkwinetasting.eventbrite.com.
Beyond food and festivities, Armenian Fest supports the church’s mission. Proceeds benefit St. Mark’s ministries, and festivalgoers are invited to tour the sanctuary to learn more about the Armenian faith and traditions. “The population of Armenians in this area is not huge, so we’re really proud to offer this day for people to come and taste Armenian food, hear our music, enjoy the atmosphere and get a sampling of our rich Armenian culture,” Jermakian said.
Admission and parking are free, and the event will take place rain or shine under tents with ample seating. A raffle of items donated by local businesses will add to the day’s excitement.
“We hope that attendees walk away having had a wonderful day tasting Armenian food, hearing our music, enjoying the atmosphere and getting a sampling of our rich Armenian culture,” Jermakian said. “And also, that they can’t wait to return next year!”
For more information, visit stmarkarmenianchurch.org, the church’s Facebook event page, or call 413-783-5793.
