Christmas in Georgia
Georgian Christmas falls on January 7, following the Julian calendar of the Georgian Orthodox Church. The tradition of Alilo, a Christmas Day procession through the streets of Tbilisi and other cities, features thousands of participants in traditional dress carrying candles and singing hymns. Georgia's ancient Christian heritage (Christianity arrived in 327 AD) gives its Christmas traditions a weight matched by few other countries.
Georgian Christmas on January 7 is anchored by two things: the Alilo procession and satsivi. The Alilo fills Tbilisi's streets with thousands of white-clad marchers carrying candles and singing hymns. Satsivi, cold chicken in a rich walnut sauce, fills every Georgian table. Together they represent the two poles of Georgian Christmas: the public and devotional, the private and culinary. In a country where Christianity arrived in 327 AD, both traditions carry the weight of centuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alilo?
A Christmas Day procession through Georgian cities where thousands march in white, carrying candles and icons, singing hymns. Donations for the poor are collected along the route.
What is chichilaki?
A traditional Georgian Christmas tree made from shaved walnut or hazelnut branches. It is burned on Epiphany (January 19), symbolically destroying the old year's troubles.
Traditions & Customs
Alilo Procession
On Christmas Day, thousands of Georgians march through city streets in white, carrying candles, icons, and banners. The Alilo in Tbilisi draws massive participation. Donations are collected for the poor.
Satsivi
Cold chicken or turkey in a walnut sauce, the traditional Georgian Christmas dish. Satsivi is one of Georgia's most famous culinary contributions.
Chichilaki
A traditional Georgian Christmas tree made from shaved walnut or hazelnut branches, shaped into a small tree. The chichilaki is burned on January 19 (Epiphany), symbolically destroying the old year's sorrows.
Gozinaki
Walnuts in caramelized honey, the essential Georgian Christmas sweet. Made for both Christmas and New Year.
Key Dates
Shoba (Christmas Day)
The main celebration. Alilo procession, church services, satsivi feast.
Akhali Tseli (Old New Year)
New Year according to the Julian calendar, celebrated by some Georgian families.
Natlisgheba (Epiphany)
Chichilaki trees are burned. Blessing of the Waters ceremony.
Christmas Carols
Georgian Christmas Hymns
Georgian polyphonic singing, recognized by UNESCO, gives Christmas church services a unique musical character. Georgian liturgical music dates back centuries.