Georgia hits all the right notes for winter holiday season
There are plenty of reasons for taking a winter trip to the official host country of ITB Berlin 2023, Georgia. Discover five unique events and traditions which attract visitors from all over the world.
The winter season in Georgia is packed with entertainment, making it an attractive destination for all types of travellers at this time of year.
The never-ending New Year celebration
Just when most of the world is returning to everyday life on January 1st, Georgians continue the festivities with a holiday feast. On January 14th, locals celebrate the “Old New Year”, with fireworks, sparkling lights, generous food, cheerful music and dancing. This is a good opportunity to extend the festivities in Georgia!
Freestyle Ski and Snowboard World Championships 2023
Georgia’s mountainous landscapes have been attracting adventure lovers for decades but this winter season will be particularly special. The town of Bakuriani is hosting the 2023 Freestyle Ski and Snowboard World Championships, one of the world’s great emerging sports events. Bakuriani is indeed the perfect winter resort for this event with its modern, international infrastructure.
Do you believe in candy rain ?
In Georgia, the title “Mekvle” is attributed to the first person who enters someone’s home after the clock strikes 12 on New Year’s Eve. They must cross the door threshold with their right foot first and wish all members of the household well before throwing as many sweets into the air as possible! Each household has its own Mekvle, as it is believed to determine that household’s destiny for the year.
Day of Luck
According to old customs, what happens on January 2nd may determine one’s luck for the whole year. Every Georgian performs acts of kindness, while having as much fun as possible. Simply being there at this joyful time of year is an uplifting delight.
Georgian “Feasts” at their best!
Every household and restaurant starts preparing for the holiday season as early as November, as they gather the best ingredients to dazzle their guests round the dinner table. Though Georgians like to feast all-year-round, the festive feasts (“supras”) are the most celebrated and diverse of the year.