John Berberian to Headline AYF West Coast Weekend

An Unforgettable Memorial Day Weekend of Golf, Community, and the Ultimate All-Star Barahantes Headlined by the Legendary John Berberian

LOS ANGELES — The wait is almost over. This Memorial Day Weekend, the Armenian Youth Federation Western United States is ready to transform Los Angeles into the epicenter of Armenian-American celebration with the highly anticipated AYF West Coast Weekend. 

A series of community-wide events will be held through May 22 to 24, including:

• Friday, May 22: 2nd Annual AYF Golf Tournament
• Saturday, May 23: “Echoes of Independence” Inaugural Picnic
• Sunday, May 24: The AYF All-Star “Barahantes” feat. John Berberian

“The AYF welcomes families, friends, and Armenian-Americans from all walks of life for a spectacular long weekend full of community celebrations rooted in connection, tradition, and fun,” stated Arpy Assadourian, a member of the AYF-WUS Central Executive and AYF Pasadena “Nigol Touman” Chapter. 

“Grab your friends, family, and fellow AYF alumni, and make sure you are in attendance for these unforgettable weekend events,” she added.

Friday, May 22: Second Annual AYF Golf Tournament
Kick off the weekend on the greens at the beautiful Brookside Golf Club (1133 Rosemont Ave, Pasadena, CA), located right next to the iconic Rose Bowl. Whether you are playing for the trophy or just for the laughs, this is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with old friends before the weekend goes into high gear. Player Entry Includes: A shared Golf Cart (1 per 2 players); Lunch to keep you fueled; Post-tournament Awards Dinner. Register online. 

Saturday, May 23: “Echoes of Independence” Inaugural Picnic
A vibrant, family-friendly outdoor picnic is coming to Glendale’s Verdugo Park (1621 Canada Blvd, Glendale, CA) Saturday, May 23 from 12:00pm-5:00pm. A perfect afternoon to relax, socialize, and celebrate our heritage under the California sun! Event highlights include:

• Mouth-Watering Food: Enjoy fresh, authentic Kebab and tasty BBQ.
• Entertainment & Games: Live music and dance featuring the Lernazang ensemble, Krista Marina and band, DJ Shaunt, special music guests, and backgammon tournament.
• Exhibition: Booths exhibiting Armenian community organizations
• Armenian Independence Celebration: Commemorate the 108th anniversary of Armenian Independence and honor our nation’s historic victories at Sardarabad, Karakilise, and Bash Abaran. 

Click here to see picnic details.

Sunday, May 24: The AYF All-Star “Barahantes”
The crown jewel of the weekend! Put on your dancing shoes and head to Bagramian Hall (900 W. Lincoln Ave, Montebello, CA) for an electrifying night of music and celebration. Doors open at 7 p.m., featuring an epic bi-coastal lineup of legendary Armenian musicians. 

Why You Can’t Miss This:

• The AYF All-Star Band: Featuring the legendary John Berberian from the East Coast and Antranig Kzirian from the West Coast, alongside an ensemble of heavy-hitters Mal Barsamian, Vik Momjian, Gurgen Khanzadian, George Bilezikjian, and Yervand Kalajian.
• Incredible Food: A Mezze buffet is included from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM and Food Truck is available from 10:00 PM to 12:00 AM.

Buy your dance tickets online.

Leave a Legacy That Lasts
“Bringing together multiple generations of AYF-ers and the broader Armenian community, this weekend’s special events will also celebrate the Armenian Youth Federation’s 90+ year legacy, offering the community an immediate chance to reconnect, reminisce, and honor lifelong friendships,” added Talar Andonian, a member of the AYF-WUS Central Executive and AYF San Francisco “Rosdom” Chapter.

Whether it was the friendships, the life lessons, or the cultural impact, AYF shaped us. Now, as alumni and supporters, you have the chance to give back. Showcase your business or honor a loved one by becoming a Weekend Sponsor or purchasing an ad in the official AYF Yearbook.

Proceeds from the AYF West Coast Weekend will benefit AYF Youth Corps’ vital work building bridges between youth in the Homeland and Diaspora.

Stay connected and catch the latest weekend hype by following the official Instagram account @AYFWestCoastWeekend.

Founded in 1933 with organizational structures in over 17 regions around the world and with a legacy of over 90 years of community involvement, the Armenian Youth Federation is the largest and most influential Armenian-American youth organization in the world, working to advance the social, political, educational, athletic and cultural awareness of Armenian youth.

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