Harvest Festival – great celebration of diversity of farming products in Armenia

 The “Harvest Festival: Rural Life and Traditions” took place on September 16 and 17 2023 in Dzoraghbyur Village in Armenia. About 200 organic agricultural producers, farmer groups, agricultural entrepreneurs, NGOs and women’s groups from all regions of Armenia and other countries participated in this year’s Harvest Festival, which was accompanied by a trade fair of natural and traditional agricultural products. Additionally, the festival of rural life and traditions featured handicrafts and other products made by artisans from various regions.

The festival is a unique platform where farmers, food producers, processors, buyers, various organizations, and potential investors can meet to exchange experiences, cooperate and find new markets. This year the ceremonial opening of the festival was attended by the prime minister of Armenia Nikol Vovayi Pashinyan who emphasised the importance of agriculture and small producers for the country’s development and food security.

A special award ceremony was also held during the event, and exhibitors were honored with prizes and gifts in the categories of Best Farmer/Women’s Group, Best Youth Group, and Best Entrepreneur, among others. NABU Armenia organised a special forum, in which different organisations and interested parties had possibilities to exchange experience in support of sustainable agriculture and tourism, promotion of farming products, handicrafts, etc. The festival was complemented by a vibrant concert program featuring popular singers, musicians, small cultural groups, entertainment, and dance performances as well as activities for children.

The co-organizer of this year’s harvest festival was the branch of German Nature Protection Union (NABU) in the Republic of Armenia within the framework of the Creative Mountains programme funded by the European Union.