April 27, 2014: A renowned Armenian poet Hovhannes Shiraz’s birthday was celebrated in Gyumri on April 27. The jubilee celebrations started at the poet’s birthplace Gyumri, thus launching the start of “The Year of Shiraz”. The celebration started from paying respect to the great poet in the courtyard of his house museum participated by Gyumri mayor Samvel Balasanyan. Afterwards, the solemn ceremony devoted to the poet’s 100th anniversary took place at “Hoktember” theater, where in his speech Samvel Balasanyan mentioned that living in a city which is the great poet’s birthplace is already a big honor for every Gyumri resident. The mayor also talked about the rich heritage left by Shiraz, as well as some episodes from the poet’s life.
The jubilee celebrations will have their continuations both this year as well as during 2015. Jubilee memorial evenings are to be held both in Gyumri and Yerevan, Shiraz written heritage public presentation will be organized, the complete collection of poet’s works are to be published, a documentary will be made, events devoted to Shiraz, exhibitions, literal gatherings and school essay competitions will be organized, etc.
Hovhannes Shiraz’s children Ashtghik and Vanand Shirazs honored with their presence during this event.