The 4th Annual Vardavar Water Festival, organized by Hayk For Our Heroes (HFOH), drew in a record crowd this past Sunday, July 27, 2025, attracting over 15,000 attendees throughout the day to Verdugo Park in Glendale, CA. The beloved summer tradition, now one of the largest Armenian events in Los Angeles, welcomed people of all ages, generations, and backgrounds—including a strong turnout from non-Armenians eager to experience Armenian culture and community.
The festival offered a vibrant mix of music, performances, food, and cultural activities. Opening remarks from the Mayor of Glendale and City Council members recognized the festival’s growing impact. A firetruck, massive splash zone, and lively water battles brought excitement and joy to thousands of participants, creating unforgettable moments of unity and celebration.
Verdugo Park was filled with laughter, dancing, and cultural pride as DJ Narek, DJ Darone, KEF Band, and Suren Arustamyan & his band delivered high-energy performances that had the crowd singing and celebrating together.
The massive splash zone remained the centerpiece of the event, with thousands enjoying the evening program, food vendors, and live music. Booths from Hayk For Our Heroes UCLA Chapter, Veterans of Armenia, Tufenkian, ANCA WR (voter registration drive), and Armenian Bone Marrow Registry further highlighted community engagement and outreach.
HFOH received multiple honors, including a Mayor’s Commendation from Glendale and recognition from the City of Los Angeles and the Seventh Council District, praising the organization for unifying the community through meaningful and joyful events like Vardavar.
“We are humbled and proud to see Vardavar grow year after year,” said Tavit Ohanian, Founder of HFOH. “From 12,000 attendees last year to 15,000 this year, it’s clear that this festival is more than just an event—it’s a cultural movement that brings together every part of our community. Our favorite part is spreading joy and laughter among children, women, and men of all ages and backgrounds, bringing out their inner child in the most beautiful way. One of the main goals of this event is to help future generations connect with their homeland while showcasing and sharing the beauty of Armenian tradition and culture with people from all walks of life. Seeing families, children, and even first-time non-Armenian attendees celebrate with us shows the power of unity and tradition.”
Founded in 2020, Hayk For Our Heroes, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is dedicated to strengthening Armenia and the diaspora through humanitarian aid, sustainable water infrastructure in border villages, agriculture, and educational initiatives. Events like the Vardavar Water Festival amplify this mission, fostering unity, pride, and cultural connection while directly supporting long-term projects benefiting Armenians worldwide.
For more information or to get involved, contact info@haykforourheroes.org.
