The festive season in Georgia begins and culminates with the New Year, a cherished family celebration that brings together relatives and close friends in a warm and joyous atmosphere.
In Georgia, New Year’s festivities are marked by a grand supra, a traditional feast featuring beloved dishes such as satsivi—a delectable preparation of turkey or chicken enveloped in a rich walnut sauce—and gozinaki, a delightful treat made of honey-glazed nuts. A popular superstition holds that the more sweets adorn the table, the “sweeter” the year ahead will be. As the clock approaches midnight, heartfelt toasts filled with best wishes echo throughout the gathering, culminating in a vibrant explosion of fireworks that light up the night sky, accompanied by music and jubilant cheers. The celebration in Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital, is particularly spectacular, drawing crowds eager to partake in the festivities.
A unique tradition during the Georgian New Year involves the Mekvle, the first guest who crosses the threshold of each home after midnight. This individual is believed to carry either good luck or misfortune for the household, making the selection of the Mekvle a matter of great importance. In smaller villages, where community ties are strong, the Mekvle is often chosen in advance, typically someone known for their knack for bringing fortune. Upon entering the home, the Mekvle blesses the space and scatters sweets, nuts, and fruits into every corner, symbolizing prosperity and abundance for the year to come.
The New Year celebrations extend into January 2, known as Bedoba, or the Day of Luck. On this day, Georgians hold the belief that the events and moods experienced will set the tone for the year ahead. To ensure a positive beginning, people make a concerted effort to remain cheerful and optimistic, as any negativity is thought to influence the fortunes of the upcoming year.