Holidays of Georgia

It is well known that the Georgians as no one else know how to celebrate and know a lot about feasts, delicious food and good wine. So it is not surprising that in Georgia national holidays are honored and respected.

The main national holidays in Georgia

Mtskhetoba-Svetitskhovloba – 14 of October

Mtskhetoba-Svetitskhovloba is one of most remarkable holidays in Georgia. Mtskheta has been Georgia’s religious and cultural center since the Christianity has become the state religion in 4th century. It was the Capital of Georgia until the 5th century AD, before King Vakhtang Gorgasali moved the Capital to Tbilisi. The “Svetitskhoveli” Cathedral (4th century) in Mtskheta has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. “Svetitskhoveli” is the place for enthronization of Georgian patriarchs.

Hundreds of infants are baptized as a part of the nation-wide feast. It is also a custom for many Georgians to visit the “Jvari” Monastery (Monastery of the Cross) of 6th century on the hill right on top of the “Svetitskhoveli” with fascinating views. Visitors may enjoy the extraordinary panorama at the junction of Mtkvari and Aragvi Rivers.

Ninooba (Saint Nino’s day) – 1 of June

This is a very important religious holiday which marks St. Nino’s arrival to Georgia, as she brought Christianity to the country. The relics of the Saint Nino are preserved in the Bodbe Monastery in Kakheti region. Every year, this day, hundreds of pilgrims visit the place. Also, a special ceremony takes place in Sioni Cathedral of Tbilisi.

Tamaroba (King Tamar’s day) – 14 of May

Tamaroba is one of the most important national holidays of Georgia. The main celebration takes place in Akhaltsikhe, where is a monument in her honor.

The 29-year reign of King Tamar (1184–1213), the first female ruler of Georgia, is considered as the most successful in Georgian history. Tamar was given the title "king of kings". She succeeded in neutralizing opposition and embarked on an energetic foreign policy. Supported by a powerful military force, the King Tamar managed to consolidate the Georgian state which dominated the Caucasus, and extended over large parts of present-day Azerbaijan, Armenia, and eastern Turkey as well as northern Iran.

Saint George's Day – 23 of November

St. George is the most beloved saint for Georgians as the Saint considered to be a patron of Georgia. There are 365 Orthodox churches in Georgia named after Saint George, according to the number of days in a year. The Georgian Orthodox Church commemorates St. George's day twice a year, on May 6th and November 23. On this day, all Georgian churches ring bells. At the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi a special liturgy takes place. It is a public holiday in Georgia.
Independence Day – 26 of May

Although Georgia regained its independence on 31 of March, 1991, Georgians celebrate the Independence Day on 26th of May as on May 26th 1918 the first Georgian independent republic was proclaimed. This day various parades and musical events take place.

Day of National Unity – 9 of April

National Unity Day is marked on April 9. The well-known events of April 9th 1989 triggered Georgians strive towards national independence. This day Georgians commemorate those who sacrificed their lives for the freedom and independence of their homeland.

Rtveli (Harvest)

Harvest in Georgia lasts from late September until the beginning of November. Grape harvest takes place on different dates in various regions of Georgia. Do not miss the chance to experience real traditions of famous Georgian party (Sufra) with polyphonic singing and folk dance. Rtveli is fun, dancing, laughter, songs, and, of course, the famous Georgian wine.

New Year

One of the most important and colorful holidays of Georgia is a New Year. Georgians celebrate it noisily, with lots of events and celebrations.

There are special traditions related to a new year in Georgia. For example, apart from traditional green Christmas tree Georgians also place Chichilaki – a homemade wooden tree. Later, they burn Chichilaki thus symbolizing getting rid of the last year’s problems.

New Year cuisine in Georgia is also special. It is not just beautiful and tasty. You will be surprised by the number of various meals. You may try spicy pickles and juicy ham, satsivi with walnuts sauce and khachapuri with traditional cheese, cottage cheese, roasted meet, honey-made sweet gozinaki, churchkhella and many other delicacies.

The Easter and Christmas in Georgia

The Easter and Christmas are among most important Christian feasts celebrated in Georgia. They are equally exciting for adults and children. As many other Christian orthodox, Georgians traditionally paint eggs in red and visit churches for prayers.
On Christmas, the night before, Special liturgy begins in all churches of Georgia. Next morning a procession of "Alilo" – kids and priests walking together on the streets and singing religious chants - symbolizes the crowd that notifies the world about the Jesus' birth. On Christmas night Georgians light candles at windows.