Christmas in Georgia is a memorable and lovely affair. It is a combination of rare traditions and fresh winter air. This unites the locals and visitors in a heartfelt and common celebration.
This article will examine how Tbilisi does it depending on what to expect and how you as a tourist can enjoy this holiday to the fullest. We will also cover topics such as peak dates and essential visitor tips.
When is Christmas celebrated in Georgia?
Christmas is celebrated on the 7th of January in Georgia. The reason is that the Georgian old Church follows the old Julian calendar.
- The season is very long as it combines Christmas and New Year festivities together. Individuals also celebrate New Year on the 31st of December and then celebrate Christmas on 7th of January.
- The season ends with an Epiphany on January 19th after Christmas. Georgians on this day can perform some final religious rituals that mark the end of the holiday season.
This extended holiday implies that winters in Georgia are more of a party than a holiday. It’s excellent for travellers who wish to have an extended stay to experience the lights and traditions.
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What makes Georgian Christmas Special?
Here’s why Christmas in Georgia is different from other countries.
Chichilaki -The Unique Christmas Tree of Georgia.
- Several Georgian houses have a Chichilaki rather than a standard pine tree. It is a handmade tree made from shaved pieces of hazelnuts or walnuts on a dry branch.
- Chichilaki are available in various sizes, from the size of a small object placed indoors to a meter high one put in an open space.
- They are decorated with shaved wood curls, berries, or ornaments which symbolise hope and the tree of life.
- Most Georgians set fire to their Chichilaki on Epiphany (19th January). This ritual is a way to forget about bad luck of last year and begin the new year with clean hands.
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Alilo — The Carol Walk
- The Alilo parade attracts people from Georgia’s communities during Christmas. Locals are dressed in traditional attire and stroll around the streets singing hymns and Christmas carols.
- The march begins at the city centre and ends at a large church like the Holy Trinity Cathedral.
- Both children can be given baskets to find sweets and nuts. The collected items are generally donated to needy people which indicates the good spirit of the community.
- Many families use candles and place them in their windows on Christmas night. It’s a symbolic way to welcome the birth of Jesus.
Music, Carols & Winter Culture
- Tbilisi is flooded with traditional Georgian music which consists of folk hymns and classical concerts in theatres or churches in the Tbilisi venues during the season of Christmas.
- Another daily activity that takes place during holidays is the street performers and puppet shows that provide visitors with a beautiful glimpse into Georgian folk culture.
Georgia during the Holiday
The capital city becomes a holiday heaven during December and mid January. It’s brightly lit and festooned with decorations on Rustaveli Avenue.
- Christmas villages and vendor stalls are found throughout Georgia. These markets sell things like local crafts and holiday treats.
- Georgian street cafes and warm restaurants serve Georgian food and mulled wine. It ensures that the mix of holiday warmth and local culture is beautiful.
- New Year’s Eve on December 31st is a massive festival that is larger than the global Christmas celebration. There are many New Year celebrations among locals who use fireworks and have family dinners and parties.
This time is enough for tourists to witness Georgia’s festive beauty. It allows you to have a more relaxed holiday experience than a brief celebration.
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Georgian Holiday Feasts
A vital element of Georgian festive mood is the food which is delicious and meant to be shared. Below are some foods and sweets that you can find on a holiday:
- Khachapuri is a popular cheese-stuffed bread that is served hot and is popular during winter holidays.
- Sweet treats like Churchkhela and Gozinaki are served at the tables at Christmas time and at the New Year or as a gift.
- Festal food like Satsivi which is a stew made with chicken and a thick walnut sauce, and other special food items.
There is nothing better than a warm dinner and a Georgian wine in front of a fire or in a cosy cafe after a hard day shopping at markets or following parades in the winter snow. Most tourists recommend savouring the local food and hospitality during this period.
Tips to Follow
Keep the tips below in mind to enjoy your time in Georgia without any problems:
- Wear Coats as December and January are extremely cold and can even be snowy. So remember to bring warm coats and gloves.
- Book in advance as New Year’s Eve is the busiest period so hotels and guesthouses will fill up soon. Attempt to make reservations early.
- Carry Cash as there are smaller market stalls or vendors that may not accept anything except the local currency.
- Respect the Local Traditions when you are at church services or at a parade. And women are required to veil their heads in some churches.
- Walk or use public transport as it is not hard to walk around Downtown Tbilisi. Public transport can also help you avoid the traffic during crowded festival days.
Conclusion
Georgia is a great place to go on holiday if you want more than a party in a day. It presents a distinctive blend of religion and hospitality. Christmas here is both religious and gladdening, and it is very long.
Spending New Year’s Eve in Georgia will ensure an exceptional experience that combines tradition and celebration. It is a truly memorable way to ring in the new year.
FAQs
Q1. When is Christmas celebrated in Georgia?
It is celebrated on January 7 following the Julian calendar that is used by the Georgian Orthodox Church.
Q2. What is the Alilo procession?
It is a religious Christmas parade where people walk and sing carols. They collect food or gifts during the walk to give to others which shows kindness and community spirit.
Q3. What is the Chichilaki?
Georgia’s traditional Christmas tree is made by shaving hazelnut wood. It is decorated with fruits and ribbons to represent peace and a fresh start.
Q4. How do Georgians celebrate New Year’s Eve?
It‘s the biggest party celebrated with fireworks and gatherings that lasts till January. This extended celebration highlights the importance of the winter holiday season.
Q5. What food is eaten during Christmas in Georgia?
Traditional foods like Satsivi and Churchkhela are eaten at a large family feast called a supra.
Q6. Is Christmas in Georgia family-focused or religious?
It’s both a family holiday and a religious one. Families gather and enjoy traditions based on ancient faith and local culture.
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About Author
Harsh Pradhan
As General Manager – Sales (North) at DU Digital Global Ltd, Harsh Pradhan brings over 15 years of expertise in driving sales, building client relationships, and expanding market presence. With a focus on operational excellence and customer success, he continues to deliver measurable growth and leadership impact.
