If you are planning to visit Georgia during Christmas, you are in for a treat. The country's rich Orthodox Christian heritage makes Christmas a grand affair, celebrated with much pomp and splendor. Georgian Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on January 7th, according to the Julian calendar, and is a unique experience that you wouldn't want to miss.
What is Georgian Orthodox Christmas?
Georgian Orthodox Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, just like in other parts of the world. However, the Georgian Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar, which is 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar. Hence, Christmas is celebrated on January 7th instead of December 25th.
The Georgian Orthodox Church is one of the oldest Christian churches in the world, dating back to the 4th century. The church has a rich history and tradition, which is reflected in the Christmas celebrations.
Preparing for Georgian Orthodox Christmas
Georgian Orthodox Christmas is a time of great preparation and anticipation. People start preparing for the celebrations weeks in advance. The streets are adorned with colorful lights, and the markets are filled with traditional Georgian sweets and delicacies.
If you want to experience Georgian Orthodox Christmas, you need to plan your trip accordingly. Make sure to book your accommodation well in advance, as this is a busy time of the year. You can also check with your hotel or tour operator for information on the local celebrations.
Attending a Georgian Orthodox Christmas Service
Attending a Georgian Orthodox Christmas service is a unique experience that you will cherish for a lifetime. The service is held in churches all over the country, and the atmosphere is electric. The churches are beautifully decorated with candles and flowers, and the choir sings hymns in Georgian.
When attending a Georgian Orthodox Christmas service, it is important to dress appropriately. Women should wear long skirts or dresses, and men should wear suits or traditional Georgian attire. You should also be respectful of the religious customs and traditions.
The Georgian Orthodox Christmas service is a solemn and spiritual experience, but it is also a time of great joy and celebration. After the service, people gather with their families and friends to feast and exchange gifts.
Traditional Georgian Christmas Food
No Georgian Orthodox Christmas celebration is complete without traditional Georgian food. Georgian cuisine is famous for its rich flavors and unique ingredients, and Christmas is the perfect time to indulge in some of the country's best dishes.
Some of the traditional Georgian Christmas dishes include:
- Gozinaki: A sweet made with honey and walnuts.
- Churchkhela: A string of walnuts dipped in grape juice and dried.
- Satsivi: A chicken or turkey dish served with a walnut sauce.
- Khachapuri: A cheese-filled bread that is a staple in Georgian cuisine.
The Georgian Christmas feast is a time for families and friends to come together and enjoy good food and company. The feast is usually held on Christmas Eve, and it can last for several hours. The table is filled with traditional Georgian dishes, and there is always plenty of wine and spirits to go around.
Joining in the Festivities
Georgian Orthodox Christmas is a time of great joy and celebration. People come together to sing, dance, and enjoy the festivities. If you want to join in the celebrations, there are plenty of opportunities to do so.
You can attend a traditional Georgian dance performance, where you will see dancers dressed in colorful costumes performing to traditional music. You can also join in the singing and dancing at the local Christmas markets, where you will find food, drinks, and souvenirs.
Georgian hospitality is legendary, and during Christmas, it is even more pronounced. Visitors are welcomed with open arms and invited to join in the festivities. You will be treated to traditional Georgian food, music, and dance, and you will leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
Final Thoughts
Georgian Orthodox Christmas is a unique and unforgettable experience. The country's rich cultural heritage and religious traditions make it a time of great joy and celebration. If you are planning to visit Georgia during Christmas, make sure to immerse yourself in the local customs and traditions. Attend a Christmas service, indulge in traditional Georgian food, and join in the festivities. You will leave with memories that will last a lifetime.