Yes, We Have: Criminals — Book Launch & Birthday Celebration
2026-09-16 19:00 - 22:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | The Center for Armenian Arts, Glendale, California, 250 N. Orange St., Glendale, CA, 91203, United States
I invite you to join me for a very special evening at the Center for Armenian Arts as I celebrate my birthday with the launch of my newest book, Yes, We Have: Criminals, part of the ongoing Yes, We Have series.
Every community has its heroes, artists, scholars, entrepreneurs, and individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to society. The Armenian community is no exception, and we have much to be proud of. But if we are going to tell our story honestly, we must also be willing to acknowledge its uncomfortable chapters. Yes, We Have: Criminals is not intended to embarrass Armenians or judge an entire community by the actions of a few. Rather, it documents individual cases involving fraud, deception, corruption, and criminal activity while recognizing that those actions do not represent the Armenian people as a whole.
This book continues the mission of the Yes, We Have series: to document Armenian life and contributions honestly and preserve our stories for future generations. Celebrating our accomplishments should not require us to hide our failures; acknowledging both is part of preserving a complete and truthful history.
The evening will also feature other books from the Yes, We Have series, including Yes, We Have, Yes, We Have: Expanded, Yes, We Have: Women and also The Armenian in America and Monasteries and Churches of Artsakh + Map of Artsakh.
Most importantly, all funds raised from book sales during the event will go toward supporting student tuition, making this celebration not only about looking back at our stories, but also about investing in the next generation.
I hope you will join me for an evening of conversation, books, community, and, of course, a little birthday celebration.
Date: Wednesday, September 16, 2026Time: 7:00 PMLocation: The Center for Armenian ArtsAddress: 250 N. Orange Street, Glendale, CA 91203
Parking: Parking is available at 222 N. Orange St., Glendale, CA 91203. The first 90 minutes are free, with parking available for $3.00 per hour thereafter.

The Woman — An Exhibition by Lilit Melikyan
2026-09-18 19:00 - 2026-09-19 18:00 | The Center for Armenian Arts, Glendale, California, 250 N. Orange St., Glendale, CA, 91203, United States
The Center for Armenian Arts is pleased to present The Woman, an exhibition by Armenian artist and designer Lilit Melikyan, Director of the Teryan Cultural Center NGO. Melikyan’s long-standing artistic practice is dedicated to the revival and contemporary reinterpretation of Armenian national costume, with a special place in her work reserved for the art of batik.
At the heart of The Woman is the Armenian woman as seen through Lilit Melikyan’s eyes—strong, creative, and life-giving, carrying within her the memory, colors, culture, and future of Armenia. Each work tells the story of a woman while simultaneously telling a story about Armenia. The Glendale exhibition will present a selection of works from Melikyan’s 2025 solo exhibition in Armenia, where she showcased 50 works of art. This selection will be presented in Glendale for the first time.
The exhibition will also introduce a new coloring book inspired by Melikyan’s artwork, created for both children and adults and inviting audiences to engage with Armenian culture through color, collage, and creativity.
The Glendale presentation marks the beginning of a new journey for the artist—a series of exhibitions of her paintings and Armenian national costumes across the United States, sharing the story of Armenia through art, fashion, and cultural heritage.
Opening Night: Friday, September 18, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Second Day: Saturday, September 19, 2026 | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: The Center for Armenian Arts
250 N. Orange Street, Glendale, CA 91203
Parking: Parking is available at 222 N. Orange St., Glendale, CA 91203. The first 90 minutes are free, with parking available for $3.00 per hour thereafter.

Nurwind Duduk Quartet Live in Concert
2026-09-20 17:00 - 19:00 | The Center for Armenian Arts, Glendale, California, 250 N. Orange St., Glendale, CA, 91203, United States
Experience an unforgettable evening of Armenian musical heritage as the Nurwind Duduk Quartet takes the stage at the Center for Armenian Arts. Renowned for their masterful performances and the rich, soulful sound of the duduk, the ensemble will present a program that celebrates Armenia’s timeless musical traditions through both beloved classics and contemporary interpretations.
The concert will feature performances by Vahan Avetisyan, Mher Mnatsakanyan, Armen Adamian, and Tigran Avetisyan, joined by special guest artists Albert Ordinyan (percussion), Haykuhi Babakhanyan (vocals), and Petros Petrosyan (vocals), creating a dynamic and memorable musical experience.
Whether you are a lifelong admirer of Armenian music or discovering the haunting beauty of the duduk for the first time, this concert promises an evening of exceptional artistry, cultural celebration, and heartfelt performance.
Date: Sunday, September 20, 2026Time: 5:00 PMLocation: The Center for Armenian Arts250 N. Orange Street, Glendale, CA 91203
Parking: 90-minute free parking is available at 222 N. Orange Street.
Tickets: $45 and $65 (Purchase Here)
Join us for an inspiring evening where tradition, artistry, and culture come together through the timeless sound of Armenia’s national instrument.

Ethno Colors Live in Glendale
2026-09-26 19:30 - 22:00 | The Center for Armenian Arts, Glendale, California, 250 N. Orange St., Glendale, CA, 91203, United States
Join us for a vibrant evening of music, culture, and celebration as Ethno Colors takes the stage in honor of the 157th birthday of Komitas, one of the most influential figures in Armenian musical history.

Known for their unique fusion of traditional Armenian melodies with contemporary arrangements and world music influences, Ethno Colors brings fresh energy to timeless songs while preserving the spirit and richness of Armenia’s musical heritage. Their performances blend powerful vocals, traditional instruments, modern sounds, and dynamic stage presence, creating an experience that appeals to audiences of all generations.

This special concert pays tribute to the enduring legacy of Komitas, whose work preserved thousands of Armenian folk songs and helped shape the foundation of Armenian national music. Through carefully selected repertoire and innovative interpretations, Ethno Colors invites audiences to reconnect with the beauty, emotion, and cultural significance of Armenian music.

Whether you are a longtime admirer of Armenian folk traditions or discovering them for the first time, this promises to be an unforgettable evening filled with music, history, and celebration.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026Time: 7:30 PMVenue: The Alex TheatreAddress: 216 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale, CA 91203

Get Your Tickets Today!

Seats are expected to fill quickly for this special celebration. Gather your family and friends and join us for an inspiring evening honoring the musical legacy of Komitas through the vibrant sounds of Ethno Colors.

Vigen Hovsepyan: The Armenian Troubadour
2026-10-09 07:30 - 22:00 | Vatche & Tamar Manoukian Performance Art Center, Pasadena, California, 2495 E. Mountain Street, Pasadena, CA, 91104, United States
Experience an unforgettable evening of Armenian folk music as Vigen Hovsepyan takes the stage in a special concert celebrating the rich traditions of Armenian song and storytelling.
Known for his expressive vocals and deep connection to Armenian musical heritage, Vigen Hovsepyan brings together beloved folk melodies, poetic interpretations, and contemporary arrangements that resonate with audiences of all generations. Accompanied by a talented ensemble of musicians, this performance promises an evening filled with warmth, artistry, and cultural pride.
Featuring:

Norayr Gapoyan – Duduk
Stepan Ter-Ghevondyan – Percussion, Daf
Gevorg Ghazaryan – Guitar

Together, these accomplished musicians create a rich and immersive soundscape that honors Armenia’s musical traditions while bringing fresh energy to timeless songs.
Whether you grew up with these melodies or are discovering them for the first time, Vigen Hovsepyan: The Armenian Troubadour offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty, emotion, and storytelling power of Armenian music in an intimate concert setting.
Purchase Tickets
Don’t miss this special evening of music, culture, and connection. Gather your family and friends and join us for a memorable celebration of Armenian song.

9th Annual Armenian Wine & Spirits Festival
2026-10-11 15:00 - 21:00 | The Center for Armenian Arts, Glendale, California, 250 N. Orange St., Glendale, CA, 91203, United States
If you are a vendor and would like to participate in GiniFest® 2026, please contact:
info@ginifest.com | (424) 424-9463 | 1-424-424-WINE
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Join us for the 9th Annual GiniFest® – Armenian Wine & Spirits Festival, taking place on Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 3 PM to 9 PM in the heart of Glendale on the 200 North Orange Street block.
GiniFest® has grown into one of Glendale’s most anticipated cultural celebrations, bringing together Armenian and international wine and spirits, live entertainment, food, art, and community in one vibrant open-air street festival. What began as a small gathering has evolved into a signature annual event that welcomes thousands of visitors each year.
This year’s festival promises another unforgettable experience featuring exceptional selections from Armenian and international wineries and distilleries, live performances throughout the day, diverse food vendors, and artisan booths offering handmade works, design pieces, and specialty products.
Visitors will enjoy a lively pedestrian festival atmosphere where culture, taste, and celebration come together. Whether you are a longtime wine enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable day with friends and family, GiniFest® offers something for everyone.
Festival Highlights:

Armenian and international wine & spirits tastings
Live music and entertainment
Food vendors and culinary experiences
Artisan booths and handcrafted goods
A festive cultural street atmosphere in downtown Glendale

Location:
200 North Orange Street, Glendale, CA
Admission:

General Admission includes beverage tastings
Food and merchandise sold separately

Get Tickets Here!
More than a festival, GiniFest® continues to support educational initiatives, with part of the proceeds contributing to student scholarship programs.
Raise a glass, celebrate culture, and enjoy one of Glendale’s most vibrant annual festivals.

Katil Live in Concert
2026-11-20 19:30 - 22:00 | Vatche & Tamar Manoukian Performance Art Center, Pasadena, California, 2495 E. Mountain Street, Pasadena, CA, 91104, United States
Get ready for an electrifying evening as Katil takes the stage for a live performance celebrating the energy, creativity, and evolving sound of contemporary Armenian music.

Blending traditional Armenian musical influences with modern arrangements, Katil has developed a distinctive style that resonates with audiences across generations. Their performances combine powerful musicianship, dynamic rhythms, and innovative interpretations, creating a concert experience that is both rooted in heritage and refreshingly modern.

Featuring a talented ensemble of musicians and a diverse range of instruments, Katil’s sound moves effortlessly between folk-inspired melodies, contemporary grooves, and original artistic expression. The result is a performance that is vibrant, engaging, and impossible to experience from a distance—you have to be there.

Whether you are a longtime fan of Armenian music or simply looking for an unforgettable night of live performance, this concert promises an evening filled with energy, emotion, and connection.

Why You Don’t Want to Miss It

A dynamic live performance by one of Armenia’s exciting contemporary ensembles

A unique blend of traditional and modern musical influences

Exceptional musicianship and innovative arrangements

An unforgettable evening for music lovers of all ages

A chance to experience Armenian music in a fresh and exciting way

Purchase Tickets

Don’t wait until the last minute—join us for an evening of extraordinary music and celebrate the power of Armenian artistry with Katil.
