Festivals in Tbilisi

Tbilisi is the cultural heart of Georgia, a city where the spirit of festivity pulses year-round. Exhibitions, premieres, lively parties, and colorful festivals keep the streets vibrant in every season. Among all these jubilations, the most spirited and beloved celebration is Tbilisoba—Tbilisi City Day. For three radiant autumn days, usually in late September, the capital bursts into life, receiving warm wishes and joyous crowds from across the country and beyond. Tbilisoba is a festival of hospitality, joy, and, of course, culinary delight. It grows more popular among travelers each year, as Tbilisi abandons sleep and surrenders to feasting, dancing, and revelry beneath the golden leaves.

The entire historic city center transforms into a grand fair. Farmers arrive with bountiful harvests of fruits and vegetables, cheesemakers present their newest artisanal creations, and winemakers pour fragrant young vintages. The air is filled with a heady blend of spices and laughter, and nowhere else will you find such a rich tapestry of Georgian flavors. The festival cannot be contained by the central square alone—it spills into the winding streets of both old and new Tbilisi. From Rike Park to Meidani Square, through the bathhouse district and along the rocky gorge, you’re invited to taste and celebrate at every step.

But Tbilisoba feeds the soul as well as the senses. Artists from all corners of Georgia come to perform—singers, folk dancers, musicians, and ballet troupes take the stage. There are events for all ages: theatrical scenes that revive the city’s past, open-air performances, and interactive experiences. Visitors can enjoy music ranging from sacred church chants to modern jazz, as well as culinary and winemaking workshops—all entirely free of charge. Even the cable cars are free during the festivities. All of Georgia—and many others—flock to Tbilisoba to sing, dance, and celebrate under one rule only: pure joy. With a sea of fruit, cheese, wine, and music, what more does one need for happiness?

Beyond City Day, Tbilisi offers a rich calendar of cultural events. In May, Mtatsminda Park hosts the much-loved New Wine Festival. Why May, you ask? Because this is when wine crafted the traditional Georgian way—in clay vessels called qvevri—is fully matured and ready to be tasted. And it’s worth the wait.

In summer, the city rocks to the rhythm of Tbilisi Open Air, a legendary three-day music festival that draws thousands. The concerts unfold across four open-air stages near Lisi Lake, featuring rock and alternative music in an electric atmosphere. Also in June, the Botanical Garden becomes a stage for spectacular displays with the Festival of Light Installations. And while you’re there, don’t miss the Ice Cream Festival—a whimsical event for children and adults alike, offering traditional creamy fruit delights for kids and gourmet treats paired with Khvanchkara wine for the grown-ups.

Autumn brings another wine celebration as part of Georgian Wine Days, a nationwide tribute to the country’s winemaking heritage. In Tbilisi, this event comes alive on October 13 along Sioni Street in the heart of the Old Town. Local winemakers line the street, sharing their finest creations alongside live music, traditional dances, fireworks, and generous Georgian snacks.

But the most sacred time for wine lovers—and for all who cherish Georgia’s agricultural traditions—is the Rtveli harvest festival. Rtveli is more than just a celebration; it is a heartfelt ode to life and a deeply rooted cultural ritual. It is the main holiday of autumn, dedicated to the grape harvest, and in Georgia, where wine is a national symbol and a point of pride, this time of year is cherished like no other. Rtveli is almost spiritual, a near-pagan festivity that resonates with every Georgian soul. Nearly every family has relatives in winemaking, and they eagerly await helping hands in the vineyards—and cheerful company at the table.

Rtveli is marked by its signature Georgian feast: long toasts, heartfelt songs, endless dishes, and a sense of camaraderie that cannot be replicated. Held in early October, the best place to experience the full spirit of Rtveli is in Kakheti. Buses to the Alazani Valley run regularly, but to truly immerse yourself, it’s best to join a guided wine tour and celebrate to the fullest.

And of course, no visit to Tbilisi would be complete without experiencing the city during its magical New Year season. Christmas and New Year’s Eve are celebrated with grandeur and warmth. From December 28 to January 13, the entire city twinkles like a festive fir tree, especially around the grand Christmas tree on First Republic Square.

One of the season’s most enchanting attractions is the New Year Village—Georgia’s most beloved holiday fair. Children are welcomed by Tovlis Babua, the Georgian Santa Claus, and entertained by whimsical characters, photo zones, an ice rink, and hands-on holiday workshops. For adults, the fair features local delicacies, theatrical performances, musicals, and star-studded concerts, creating a festive experience for all ages.