New Year and Christmas evenings in a Georgian family: traditions and modernity
Georgian New Year and Christmas
Georgian New Year and Christmas are magical times when homes are filled with warmth, the aroma of homemade treats, and heartfelt family moments. Modern traditions seamlessly blend with ancient customs, and the festive spirit shines through every detail, from decorating the chichilaki to enjoying a celebratory feast.
New Year’s Eve
On New Year’s Eve, Georgian homes are traditionally adorned with a chichilaki—the "Georgian Christmas tree" carved from a straight hazelnut branch. Its white "beard" symbolizes purity, while decorations of dried fruits, sweets, and nuts represent fertility and abundance. Families gather around a lavish table set with the finest dishes such as satsivi, gozinaki, and lobiani.
“New Year’s Eve is a time when the heart of every Georgian opens up for kind wishes and blessings.”
This sentiment is vividly reflected in the works of Ilia Chavchavadze, who emphasizes the importance of family hearth and warmth in the home.
Festive Traditions
One of the key traditions is the role of the mekvle—the first guest to cross the threshold on New Year’s Day. The mekvle is believed to bring happiness and good fortune, so families carefully select someone special for this role.
In Old Tbilisi, there was a tradition of leaving doors open on New Year’s Eve:
"Let an angel enter the house in peace, and may all evil pass by."
Christmas Eve
Christmas, or Shoba, is one of the most revered holidays in Georgia. The morning begins with Alilo, a Christmas procession filled with hymn singing. Participants dress in colorful attire, carry stars, and walk from house to house, spreading joy through the streets.
The dinner table is filled with a special atmosphere. Georgian Christmas feasts feature heartfelt toasts for the health and unity of the family. Akaki Tsereteli, one of Georgia’s celebrated poets, wrote:
"On Christmas, a candle lights up not only on the table but also in the heart. It is the light of peace, love, and faith."
Wisdom from the Past with Modern Touches
Despite modern influences, Georgian families hold their roots in high regard. Elders share stories of how their ancestors celebrated the holidays, passing down wisdom through generations.
An evening in a Georgian family is more than just a celebration; it’s a living embodiment of culture, unity, and love, where traditions find new life intertwined with contemporary practices.