Christmas in Georgia

The holiday season in Georgia is a heartwarming blend of ancient traditions and festive cheer. Expats and digital nomads experiencing their first Christmas and New Year's in this Caucasus nation will find a unique celebration that intertwines the country's rich history with the joy of the season.

Christmas and New Year's Celebrations in Georgia

In Georgia, Christmas and New Year's are times of joyous celebration, marked by a series of events and customs that reflect the country's Orthodox Christian heritage. Christmas is celebrated on January 7th, following the Julian calendar, which is used by the Georgian Orthodox Church. The New Year, however, is welcomed on January 1st, aligning with the Gregorian calendar and is often considered the more secular and widely celebrated of the two holidays.

Georgian Holiday Traditions

Georgians celebrate the holidays with a mix of religious reverence and communal festivity. Leading up to Christmas, you'll find beautiful displays and Christmas markets, particularly in the capital city of Tbilisi. The Tbilisi Christmas Market is a must-visit, where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy the holiday atmosphere, shop for gifts, and taste traditional Georgian holiday treats.

While there isn't a Santa Claus in the Western sense, Georgia has its own version known as "Tovlis Papa" or "Tovlis Babua" in Georgian, meaning Grandfather Snow. This figure is similar to Santa Claus and brings gifts to children. Gift-giving is common, with presents often being exchanged on both New Year's and Christmas. Traditional gifts include handmade items, sweets, and sometimes, symbolic gifts that reflect one's wishes for the recipient in the coming year.

Festive Foods and Sweets

Georgian holiday tables are laden with an array of traditional foods. For Christmas, "gozinaki," a confection made of caramelized nuts and honey, is a staple. "Satsivi," a walnut sauce often served with turkey or chicken, is another festive favorite. New Year's feasts might include "khachapuri," a cheese-filled bread, and "mchadi," Georgian cornbread, alongside various meats, cheeses, and salads. The New Year's table is also known for its abundance and variety, symbolizing the hope for a plentiful year ahead.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

On Christmas Eve, many Georgians attend a special church service called "Alilo," a traditional procession where people walk through the streets dressed in costumes, singing carols, and collecting donations for the needy. Christmas Day is often spent with family, attending church services, and enjoying a festive meal. While not everyone goes to church, it's a significant part of the holiday for the devout, with Midnight Mass being a central event for many on Christmas Eve.

Decorations and Festivities

Certain towns and neighborhoods in Georgia are renowned for their Christmas decorations and festive spirit. Tbilisi's Rustaveli Avenue and the Old Town are particularly magical, adorned with lights and holiday displays. The city of Batumi also puts on a spectacular light show, with its coastal location adding a unique backdrop to the festivities. In Kutaisi, the central square becomes a hub of holiday activity, with decorations that illuminate the historical architecture.

In conclusion, the holiday season in Georgia offers a distinctive experience for expats and digital nomads. From the vibrant Christmas markets to the solemn beauty of the Alilo procession, there's a depth to the Georgian holidays that is both enchanting and heartwarming. The blend of traditional foods, gift-giving, and communal celebrations creates a festive atmosphere that is sure to make your first holiday season in Georgia a memorable one. Whether you're exploring the illuminated streets of Tbilisi or enjoying a Georgian feast with new friends, the spirit of the season is alive and well in this corner of the Caucasus.