Pashinyan to perform with his band at Lake Sevan show

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan visited the Varchafest 2026 youth music competition and festival being held at Sevan Festival City on the shores of Lake Sevan.

The festival brings together young musical groups, live music enthusiasts and industry representatives on a single platform.

According to the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports, Pashinyan toured the festival grounds, visited the camping area and spoke with participants around a campfire. He was accompanied by Education, Science, Culture and Sports Minister Zhanna Andreasyan, Deputy Minister Tigran Virabyan and Gegharkunik Governor Karen Sargsyan.

On the festival’s final day, August 22, the winners will be determined based on both professional jury assessments and votes cast by the attending audience.

The name “Varchafest” combines the Armenian word “varchapet,” meaning “prime minister,” with “fest.” The name is also a nod to Varchaband, the prime minister’s music band, in which Pashinyan plays the drums.

The festival’s official website lists Varchaband among the performers scheduled to take the stage on August 22.