Food. Music. Dancing. Community.

For one summer afternoon, the coast of Maine becomes a little bit Armenian.

Sunday, July 26, 2026
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Searsport Shores Oceanfront Campground
Searsport, Maine

Some guests come because they grew up with Armenian food and traditions. Others arrive knowing almost nothing about Armenia at all. By the end of the day, everyone has shared a meal, learned a dance, and become part of the celebration.

Here is a glimpse of the Armenia we bring to Maine.

Tonri Lavash by Seveda Grigoryan

Just follow the music and the aroma of the wood grills to Searsport Shores Oceanfront Campground. You'll find us on Route 1 between Camden and Bar Harbor, where the sea breeze carries a little bit of Armenia to the coast of Maine.

Join us for homemade Armenian and Middle Eastern foods grilled and baked beside the sea. Food will be served from noon until 3:00 PM.

Enjoy the live kef music (happy, danceable party music) and join hands for traditional village dancing after a few lessons on the dance floor. A special thank you to Belfast Flying Shoes for sponsoring dance lessons and music.

Stroll our own silk road and shop for authentic handcrafts & food and participate in hands-on demonstrations celebrating the beautiful handwork we've brought back from Armenia.

Bringing Armenia to the Maine Coast

The Children Behind the Story

Every year, the profits from the Armenian Picnic supports cultural and educational programs for children in Armenia. Through art, music, woodworking, chess, knitting, and community activities, these programs help preserve culture and create opportunities for children affected by war and displacement.

Last year I stood on the 13th century Berdavan, Armenia fortress wall and thought about bringing more of our wonderful experience to you while helping create opportunities for children living in communities affected by war and displacement.

But leaving home and traditions is heartbreaking and to shore up the moral of their people, Armenian churches began organizing picnics...an occasion for dancing in the sunshine, sharing familiar foods, re-telling stories and making connections that would endure through generations.

Today, that tradition continues here on the coast of Maine. Every picnic ticket, meal, and handcrafted purchase helps support educational and cultural opportunities for children like these.

To watch our picnic preparations, beginning with April in Armenia, follow us on Instagram @SilkRoadtoSearsport