ALAVERDI ST. GEORGE’S DAY

Alaverdi St. George’s Day is an annual festival that takes place in the town of Alaverdi in northeastern Georgia, typically in May. The festival is a celebration of St. George’s Day, a Christian holiday that honors the patron saint of Georgia.

The festival begins with a procession of religious icons and a blessing from the local bishop. After the blessing, the festival continues with traditional music, dancing, and feasting. Local residents and visitors alike join in the celebration, which includes horse racing, wrestling competitions, and other traditional activities.

One of the main features of the festival is the traditional “chichilaki” dance, which is performed by men wearing white robes and tall hats made from sheep’s wool. The dance involves a series of synchronized steps and movements, accompanied by traditional Georgian music played on drums and other instruments.

Visitors to the festival can also enjoy a range of traditional Georgian foods, including khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), khinkali (dumplings filled with meat or cheese), and other local specialties.

Alaverdi St. George’s Day is a unique and colorful celebration that showcases the rich cultural traditions of Georgia’s northeastern region. The festival provides an opportunity for visitors to experience the country’s vibrant folk traditions, sample traditional cuisine, and connect with the local community.