Christmas Celebration in Georgia

Georgia, a predominantly Orthodox Christian nation, celebrates Christmas on January 7th, following the Julian calendar. The festivities blend deep-rooted religious traditions with unique customs and joyous celebrations.

Religious Observance

• Church Services: The Georgian Orthodox Church plays a pivotal role. Christmas Eve services are particularly significant, filled with prayers and hymns.
• Alilo Procession: A vibrant tradition, where people dress in colorful costumes, often representing characters from the Nativity story. They parade through streets, singing carols, and collecting donations for charity.

Festive Meals and Traditions

• Chichilaki: A small, conical-shaped tree made from hazelnut or walnut branches, decorated with fruits and sweets. It's a symbol of Christmas, especially in western Georgia.
• Supra: A traditional Georgian feast, often held on Christmas Eve, featuring a variety of dishes like satsivi (chicken or turkey in a walnut sauce), khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), and various salads.
• Caroling: Groups of people, especially children, go door-to-door singing Christmas carols, often in exchange for small gifts or treats.
• Nazuki: A sweet, braided bread, often baked and shared during the holiday season.

Gift-Giving and Family Traditions

• Gift-Giving: While not as central as in some other cultures, small gifts are exchanged among family and friends.
• Family Gatherings: Christmas is a time for family reunions, with many people traveling to be with loved ones.

Unique Customs

• Lighting Candles: Candles are lit in windows, symbolizing hope and light.
• Tovlis Papa: A Georgian version of Santa Claus, who brings gifts to children on New Year's Eve.

A Blend of Old and New

While the Georgian Orthodox Church adheres to the Julian calendar, the influence of Western Christmas traditions is also visible, with Christmas trees and Santa Claus becoming increasingly popular.

Overall, Christmas in Georgia is a time of religious devotion, family gatherings, and joyful celebrations, reflecting the country's rich cultural heritage.