Armenians possess a deep-rooted gift for storytelling—a talent that finds its most vivid expression at the annual Tumanyan Storytelling Festival in Armenia. This immersive cultural event transforms the quiet northern town of Tumanyan into a dynamic stage for a weekend filled with theatrical shows, poetry readings, narrative performances, live music, creative workshops, and contemporary art exhibitions. Launched in 2022 by a group of passionate friends, the festival quickly grew into a major attraction, drawing hundreds of visitors who share a love for expressive and imaginative art forms.
The festival’s foundation lies in the rich oral traditions of Armenia, where stories have long been used to pass down values, define social norms, and shape the collective imagination of the nation. Through myths and folktales passed from one generation to the next, Armenians have preserved a vibrant cultural memory that defines heroes and villains, virtue and vice. These narrative traditions have played a central role in the development of Armenian national identity and the evolution of the language itself. In this context, festivals that celebrate the spoken word and the enduring art of storytelling carry deep significance—not only as cultural events but as vital tools for educating and inspiring future generations.
Programming at the festival is bilingual, with workshops, lectures, and performances offered in both Armenian and English, making the event accessible to a wide audience. Over the course of two to three days, the schedule extends well beyond stage performances. Attendees are invited to explore local culture through visits to the Hovhannes Tumanyan Museum, guided tours of the town, scenic hikes through the dramatic Debed Canyon, riverside dinners, bonfire storytelling sessions, and painting masterclasses. The variety of experiences ensures that guests are fully immersed in the creative and natural beauty of the region.
The festival unfolds in a unique venue known as “Abastan,” an Armenian word that translates to “sanctuary.” True to its name, Abastan serves as a refuge for artists and visionaries. Originally an old sewing factory, the site has been transformed by the Tumanyan Foundation into a thriving artistic hub. Today, it houses a collection of workshops, studios, and collaborative spaces that support educational programs, creative projects, and civic initiatives. The adaptive reuse of this industrial space into a cultural sanctuary symbolizes the spirit of renewal and artistic innovation that defines the festival itself.
Set against the backdrop of verdant mountains and the flowing waters of the Debed River, Abastan offers a stunning natural setting for this celebration of creativity. The Tumanyan Storytelling Festival is far more than a cultural event—it is a heartfelt gathering of dreamers, makers, and storytellers who come together to share their visions and breathe new life into an age-old tradition.
For more information visit the official page of Tumanyan International Storytelling Festival.
