Memorial Day Weekend 2026 is AYF West Coast Weekend
Featuring the All-Star “Barahantes” Dance, Armenian Independence Day Picnic, and Golf Tournament
Los Angeles, California — The Memorial Day Weekend 2026 is officially the “AYF West Coast Weekend”, announced the Armenian Youth Federation Western United States (AYF-WUS).
A series of community-wide events will be held through the long weekend of May 22-25, 2026 including a Community Picnic, along with the return of the AYF All-Star “Barahantes” Dance and AYF Golf Tournament.
“The AYF West Coast Weekend promises to bring to Los Angeles a long weekend full of community celebrations rooted in connection, tradition, and fun,” stated Arpy Assadourian, a member of the AYF-WUS Central Executive and AYF Pasadena “Nigol Touman” Chapter.
Kicking off the weekend on Friday, May 22, 2026 is the second annual AYF Golf Tournament. This year, participants will tee off at the Brookside Golf Club in Pasadena, California located near the Rose Bowl at 1133 Rosemont Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103.
An inaugural AYF Community Picnic celebrating Armenian Independence Day will be held Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Verdugo Park in Glendale, CA, for families and community members of all ages, featuring a day of live music, tasty BBQ, games, and more. The Picnic will serve as a commemoration of the 108th anniversary of Armenian Independence, remembering our nation’s victory against all odds at Sardarabad, Karakilise, and Bash Abaran.
The long weekend’s premier event, the AYF All-Star “Barahantes” Dance, is slated for Sunday, May 24, 2026, assembling an extraordinary lineup of entertainers, including Antranig Kzirian from the West Coast and John Berberian from the East Coast. Other featured musicians include Mal Barsamian, Gurgen Khanzadian, George Bilezikjian, and Yervand Kalajian. The “Barahantes” Dance will take place at Holy Cross Armenian Apostolic Cathedral’s Bagramian Hall in Montebello, CA, and will feature a mezze buffet from 7 p.m to 9 p.m.
“Bringing together multiple generations of AYF-ers and the broader Armenian community, this special weekend will also celebrate the Armenian Youth Federation’s 90+ year legacy, offering the community a chance to reconnect, reminisce, and honor lifelong friendships,” added Talar Andonian, a member of the AYF-WUS Central Executive and AYF San Francisco “Rosdom” Chapter.
