The Armenian Food Festival Returns to Richmond Sept. 18-19

Richmond’s most beloved late-summer food tradition is back. The Armenian Food Festival returns September 18-19 for two days of shish kebabs, homemade pastries, and the legendary Hye Burger — the sandwich that’s landed on enough “best burger” lists to cement its status as a Richmond institution.

Now in its 66th year, the festival is organized by members of St. James Armenian Church and held at the corner of Pepper and Patterson avenues. It’s the kind of event that keeps people coming back year after year: good food, live traditional music and dancing, and a mission that matters. All proceeds support charitable causes locally and internationally.

What You’ll Eat

The kitchen at St. James takes this seriously. Beyond the famous Hye Burger, you’ll find chicken shish kebabs, cheese boreg, Armenian meat pies, grape leaves stuffed and ready to go, and hummus made fresh. There’s a full lineup of pastries for dessert, plus vegan options if that’s your lane. Armenian beer and wine are available to wash it down.

Admission is free, so you can wander in, browse what catches your eye, and grab a plate (or three). The festival runs both days from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Since 1958, this has been where Richmond celebrates Armenian food and culture in one place. It shows.