YEREVAN, DECEMBER 30, NOYAN TAPAN. Armenians called New Year "Amanor" ("am" meant "year" in ancient Armenian, and "nor" means "new") or Navasard ("nav" means "new" and "sard" - "year" in Indian). This holiday was called differently in various Armenian regions - Taremut, Tareglukh or Kaghand. Ancient Armenians used to celebrate New Year in summer. In the 18th century they started to celebrate New Year on January 1 by the calendar of the Catholicos of All Armenian Simeon Yerevantsi. Many nations decorate Christmas trees, which symoloize the Tree of Life in the Paradise, while stars on the top of Christmas trees - the Star of Bethlehem. The most desired guest Dzmer Pap (Santa Claus) comes with his presents. He was Partriarch Saint Nicolas the Miracle-Worker who was born in the family of rich, pious and virtuous people in 280 in the province of Likia in Asia Minor. Nicolas the Mircale-Worker was a kind and generous man always ready to help those in need, he took care of children, gave them presents. Sain Nicolas was the saint of children. According to astrologer Hranush Kharatian, Armenians used to prepare for New Year several months before this holiday. In autumn they preserved dried fruits and nuts for their New Year tables. It is noteworthy that January 1 falls on the week of Armenian Christmas and it is a fast day so many dishes contain food suitable for observing fasting. People bake bread to start the new year with new bread. Besides, ritual bread is baked in various regions of Armenia. By tradition, some small "sign" is put in this ritual bread and divided among family members: the new year will bring good luck to the person who gets this sign.

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