New Year Celebrations in Georgia
New Year in Tbilisi
The squares of Tbilisi are always bursting with the festive mood of the New Year. The big Christmas tree is ceremoniously lit in the middle of December, in front of the parliament building on Rustaveli Avenue.
The “New Year Village” is held in several locations across the city, including First Republic Square, Orbeliani Square, the 9th of April Garden, Rustaveli Avenue, the Dry Bridge area, and Dedaena Park.
For two weeks, New Year Village offers exciting entertainment for people of all ages. During the day, children enjoy performances and costume shows with animators, elves, and animated characters, while evenings feature live bands and electronic music concerts for adults.
Mtatsminda Park, an ideal place for year-round leisure, becomes one of the best spots in Tbilisi to celebrate the New Year.
On New Year’s Day, Georgian Santa Claus Tovlis Babua, who comes from the picturesque region of Svaneti, appears at Mtatsminda Park. Wearing traditional Georgian attire, he brings gifts in colorful baskets. Children are always excited to meet him and take photos.
The New Year Fairs
A joyful atmosphere fills Tbilisi with New Year Fairs held across the New Year Villages. In festively decorated booths, visitors can buy Georgian souvenirs, handmade toys, jewelry, clothes, and traditional sweets like Gozinaki, a special New Year treat.
The night of December 31st marks the grand finale of the celebrations with a spectacular concert in Tbilisi. Nightclubs, pubs, and restaurants across the capital remain lively until morning.
New Year in Batumi
New Year festivities in Batumi are just as vibrant as in Tbilisi. Palm trees covered in lights along the beach create a magical holiday atmosphere.
The biggest celebrations take place at Europe Square and along Batumi Boulevard, continuing for several days. Like the capital, Batumi hosts a grand concert on the evening of December 31st.
The Batumi New Year Village features traditional foods, handicrafts, and sweets sold in decorated stalls. Sipping hot mulled wine from a large bowl makes visitors forget the winter chill.
New Year at Georgia Ski Resorts
If your ideal holiday includes snow-covered landscapes, cozy fireplaces, and time with loved ones, Georgia’s mountain and ski resorts are perfect for New Year’s Eve.
The festive spirit in Bakuriani, Gudauri, Goderdzi, Hatsvali, and Tetnuldi is enhanced by breathtaking snowy scenery. Visitors enjoy concerts, entertainment activities, and unforgettable evenings in high-quality cafes and restaurants.
On January 14th, when Svaneti celebrates the Old New Year, visitors can attend Gemofest, a regional street food festival offering authentic Svan cuisine.
Both amateur and professional skiers are welcome to participate in the Zuruldi Cup, held in Hatsvali on January 13th and 14th.
As the New Year approaches, people across Georgia count down the final seconds together under spectacular fireworks. It is believed that wishes made at that moment always come true.
Text Copyright: georgia.travel
