On the eve of the 14th of February, Armenians light a bonfire; it is done by churches in their courtyards, but it is also done in backyards, out in the street, and other open spaces.
While waiting for the flames to calm, people gather around the fire in a circle and dance traditional Armenian dances. After the fire has settled, newly engaged or married couples (other couples can do so too) hold each other’s hand and jump over the fire and to the other side of the bonfire. This act is to be done three times (that’s the recommended amount).
Roasted wheat and hemp, called aghandz (Աղանձ), is served to the couples after they have jumped over the fire and gone through the process of purification (by jumping over the fire).