If you're looking for a unique and memorable way to celebrate the festive season, look no further than the Georgian Christmas markets. From traditional crafts and food to live music and entertainment, these markets offer something for everyone. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at some of the best Georgian Christmas markets, as well as the history and traditions behind this festive season.
A Brief History of Christmas in Georgia
While Georgia is a predominantly Orthodox Christian country, Christmas is not celebrated on December 25th as it is in the West. Instead, Christmas is celebrated on January 7th, following the Julian calendar. However, the period leading up to Christmas is still a festive time in Georgia, with markets, decorations, and traditional foods.
The Georgian Orthodox Church has a rich history and tradition that dates back to the 4th century. The Church has played a significant role in shaping Georgian culture, and its influence can be seen in many aspects of daily life, including the celebration of Christmas.
The Georgian Christmas season begins on December 25th and lasts until January 7th. During this time, people attend church services, participate in traditional festivities, and enjoy traditional Georgian foods.
The Best Georgian Christmas Markets
Tbilisi Christmas Market
The Tbilisi Christmas Market is one of the most popular and well-known markets in Georgia. Located in the heart of the city, the market offers a wide range of traditional crafts, food, and drink. From handmade ornaments and jewelry to hot mulled wine and traditional Georgian sweets, there's something for everyone at this festive market.
One of the highlights of the Tbilisi Christmas Market is the live music and entertainment. Local musicians and performers take to the stage to entertain visitors with traditional Georgian songs and dances. The atmosphere is lively and festive, and visitors can't help but get into the holiday spirit.
Batumi Christmas Market
If you're looking for a coastal Christmas experience, the Batumi Christmas Market is the place to be. Located on the Black Sea coast, this market offers a unique blend of traditional Georgian and Western Christmas traditions. You'll find everything from handmade crafts and gifts to live music and entertainment.
The Batumi Christmas Market is known for its beautiful decorations and lights. Visitors can stroll through the market and admire the festive displays, which include a giant Christmas tree and other holiday-themed decorations.
Telavi Christmas Market
For a more traditional Georgian Christmas experience, head to the Telavi Christmas Market. Located in the heart of Georgia's wine country, this market offers a range of local wines, cheeses, and other traditional foods. You'll also find handmade crafts and gifts, as well as live music and entertainment.
The Telavi Christmas Market is a great place to sample traditional Georgian foods and wines. Visitors can try khinkali, a type of dumpling filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, or satsivi, a creamy walnut sauce served with chicken or turkey. And of course, no Georgian Christmas market would be complete without a glass of local wine.
Traditional Georgian Christmas Foods
No Georgian Christmas market would be complete without traditional Georgian foods. Here are some of the most popular dishes you'll find at these markets:
- Khinkali: Dumplings filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables
- Churchkhela: A sweet snack made from nuts and grape juice
- Satsivi: A creamy walnut sauce served with chicken or turkey
- Pirozhki: Small savory pies filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables
- Gozinaki: A sweet snack made from nuts and honey
Georgian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and unique combinations of ingredients. Many of the dishes served during the Christmas season are made with local, seasonal ingredients, such as walnuts, pomegranates, and persimmons.
Festive Traditions in Georgia
In addition to the markets and food, there are also a number of festive traditions in Georgia during the Christmas season. Here are a few examples:
- Alilo: A procession of people dressed in traditional costumes who sing and collect donations for charity
- Chichilaki: A traditional Georgian Christmas tree made from dried hazelnut branches
- Gogovani: A traditional Georgian dance performed during the Christmas season
- Tbilisoba: A festival held in Tbilisi in October to celebrate the city's history and culture
The Alilo procession is a beloved tradition in Georgia. People dress in traditional costumes and carry banners and icons as they march through the streets, singing carols and collecting donations for charity. Children often participate in the procession, carrying small candles or lanterns.
The Chichilaki is a unique Georgian Christmas tree made from dried hazelnut branches. The branches are carefully shaped into a conical shape and decorated with traditional ornaments, such as red apples and white ribbons.
Conclusion
Whether you're a local or a visitor to Georgia, the Christmas markets offer a unique and festive way to celebrate the season. From traditional crafts and food to live music and entertainment, there's something for everyone at these markets. So why not grab a cup of hot mulled wine and enjoy the festive atmosphere at one of the best Georgian Christmas markets?