In Armenian culture, a table is a sacred space where history is told, family bonds are tightened, and values are passed down. Guided by the Tamada (toastmaster), an Armenian feast follows a specific, rhythmic order that has been honored for generations.

Whether you are hosting a small gathering or attending a grand wedding, understanding this sequence allows you to participate in the "soul" of the gathering. Here is the Ultimate Toast Guide, brought to you by Armat, to help you navigate the beautiful tradition of the Armenian Kenats.

Every feast begins here. This toast "opens" the table and sets the intention for the evening. It celebrates the act of coming together, meeting with good intentions, and the hope that every future meeting will be for a joyful occasion. It is a welcome to the guests and a blessing for the host’s hospitality.

Perhaps the most emotional moment of the night. This is a tribute to the "Tsnoghner" (parents) for their unconditional love, sacrifice, and guidance. It is customary to wish them health, a peaceful old age, and the ultimate Armenian blessing: the joy of seeing their children and grandchildren thrive.

In Armenian life, the Kavor and Kavorkin (godparents) hold a sacred, parental role. This toast honors that spiritual bond, expressing deep gratitude for their presence and wishing them many years of shared celebrations with their own families.

Siblings are the first friends we ever have. This toast celebrates the bond of blood and shared history. It is often an "open" toast, where the Tamada invites others at the table to share personal memories or specific blessings for their brothers and sisters.

A hallmark of modern Armenian gatherings, this is a solemn and powerful moment. We raise a glass to the brave individuals standing guard at the borders. It is a prayer for their safety, their protection, and the ultimate hope for a day when peace is so permanent that the guard is no longer needed.

The "Yerekhaner" are the light of the Armenian household. This toast is a blessing for the next generation. We wish for their health, their education, and most importantly, that they grow up under a peaceful sky, surrounded by a community that cares for them.

"Khaghaghutyun" is a word that carries deep weight in Armenia. This toast extends beyond the walls of the room, expressing a universal hope for calm skies and harmony throughout the world and within our own borders.

As the evening matures, we celebrate the family we choose. This is a joyful, unifying moment where friends are invited to raise full glasses, celebrating the loyalty and unity that make life’s journey beautiful.

We never truly sit at a table alone; we bring the memories of those who came before us. This toast, the Hishataki Toast, is a moment of profound respect. We honor those who are no longer with us, ensuring their legacy and spirit remain a part of the celebration.