Christmas is an exciting and important celebration for Christians, held every year in the winter season. The exact start date of Christmas is not accurately determined and depends on factors such as culture and the country’s history. There’s something really extraordinary about how Georgia’s Christmas day that gets you into the festive spirit. Tbilisi and other cities in the country are decorated with pine trees and colorful lights, signaling the start of the Christmas holiday. There’s just something magical about walking down the street with all the twinkling lights. It really puts you in the Christmas spirit. Join us in this section to learn more about the Christmas celebration in Georgia.
History of Christmas in Georgia
Christmas, with its global recognition on the 25th of December, takes on a unique twist in Georgia! Georgian cherish the belief that Christ was born on January 7th, marking this as their day of Christmas celebration. Contrary to the usual gift-giving and family gatherings on Christmas day elsewhere, in Georgia, these heartfelt traditions are reserved for New Year’s Eve. This divergence stems from the Georgian Orthodox Church’s adherence to the ancient Julian calendar, setting them apart in their festive timetable. As the Georgian Christmas day dawns on January 7th, the streets come alive with community spirit. On Christmas day in Georgia some locals partake in the special Alilo procession, a vibrant and meaningful expression of their religious and cultural identity.
The Alilo Procession in Christmas in Georgia
Alilo is one of the ancient traditions dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries. One of the common old customs during Christmas was for people to gather together and congratulate each other on Christmas by singing the Alilo chant. Over time, this tradition has undergone changes and variations in each region of Georgia, and it is celebrated every year on January 7th. The ceremony is held in the following way: people come to the city streets wearing religious attire and celebrate by serving food, beverages, and sweets. Another common practice in the Alilo celebration in Georgia is the organization of a collective procession. Clergymen from churches, as well as children wearing sticharion clothing -golden, white, or red robes- carry crosses in their hands, collect food and sweets treats, and ultimately distribute them to those in need and orphanages.
Christmas celebrations in Georgia
In Georgia, the Christmas season begins around December 15th and lasts until January 15th, creating a festive atmosphere in cities like Tbilisi. Georgians are known for their joyful nature and go all out in their celebrations. The cities of Tbilisi and Batumi, popular tourist destinations, are adorned with beautiful decorations, including pine trees, colorful lights, and festive ornaments. Recreational centers offer traditional booths, music, and various forms of entertainment. Visitors can enjoy captivating concerts or participate in street music and dancing.
January 2nd holds special significance in Georgian culture and is considered a lucky day. Each city in Georgia has its own unique and diverse celebrations. One interesting aspect of Christmas in Georgia is the different names for the New Year celebration in different regions. In western Georgia, it is called “Kalandoba,” while in mountainous areas, it is referred to as “Zumkha.” Another fascinating tradition is the “Mekvle” or “Gamotkhoba” ceremony. Mekvleoba is a Georgian tradition about the first person who enters the house on New Year’s Day. Mekvle is a Georgian name for the first guest of the day. It is believed that the upcoming year will be similar to the fortune, joy, and luck that Mekvle brings. While entering the house, a first-foot throws sweets and wishes the best to the family.
Georgians actively participate in sewing and embroidery during the Christmas season. Additionally, baking a variety of sweets and foods such as “Guruli ghvezeli”, a type of pastry made with basil, is a cherished tradition among the Georgian population during Christmas.
Read more: Introducing the best Georgian cuisine
Georgian Chichilaki Tree
We all know that the symbol of Christmas worldwide is the pine tree, but in Georgia, the Chichilaki tree holds great significance as a New Year tree. In fact, this tree is made up of dried and carved branches of walnut or hazelnut and is considered a symbol of hope for Georgians. Typically, people in Georgia set the Chichilaki tree on fire at the end of Christmas because they believe it will eliminate their troubles. For decorating this tree, various decorative elements, as well as apples, pomegranates, or cranberries, can be used.
Christmas Village in Tbilisi
If you want to spend Christmas 2024 in Georgia, don’t miss the Christmas Village in Tbilisi. This village opens from December 15th and will be hosting visitors until January 7th at Orbeliani Square.
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