New Year 2025 in Tbilisi, Georgia, will indeed go down in history as a historic and unforgettable celebration, so unique and awe-inspiring that it truly was an experience not to be missed. It delivered a once-in-a-lifetime experience, unmatched in its grandeur, leaving an indelible mark on both the country and the world.
There was an ironic twist to the timing of this grand event. Prior to the celebration, the newly elected Georgian Dream president of Georgia, Mikheil Kavelishishvili, in his inaugural speech at Parliament, highlighted the profound cultural significance of the Georgian “supra.” He stated, “The Georgian ‘supra’ is not only an expression of our traditions and attitudes, but also an immaterial cultural heritage monument, which best shows our – Georgians’ – attitude toward peace.”
The Georgian “supra” is a profound symbol of cultural heritage, representing more than just hospitality and celebration. As a UNESCO-recognized tradition, every supra begins with a toast to God and peace, reminding everyone that harmony is essential for a good life. In Georgian culture, shared meals are acts of spiritual and communal significance that bring people together in mutual respect and understanding.
In the context of Georgia’s history, the creativity of the Georgian people has always been extraordinary, particularly during these protests advocating for new elections, the freedom of political prisoners, and closer ties between Georgia and the EU. Despite the tensions, the festive and warrior spirit of the nation remained strong. In this very spirit, on December 31, peaceful protesters set up a long stretch of festive tables, known as a supra, all the way from Freedom Square to Rustaveli Avenue. The tables were decorated in the red and white colors of the Georgian flag. This symbolic act divided the street into two, like the two banks of the Mtkvari River, showcasing unity and resilience. The left and right sides of the tables were more than just places to eat: they were spaces for connecting, respecting traditions, and celebrating shared values.
It was not just an impressive New Year celebration, but a magical and serene evening that will be cherished for a lifetime- an experience that can be passed down through generations. As I wandered along the tables, observing the people and the lively atmosphere, I was struck by the undeniable sense of community. It wasn’t just a celebration; it was a moment that transcended the ordinary- a true testament to connection and shared humanity.
The white tablecloths began to be filled with the public’s messages and heartfelt wishes, turning the area into a lively canvas of creativity and connection. It became an engaging performance, uniting children who enthusiastically drew and wrote, while adults left their hopes for Georgia’s future.
Reaching the section with red tablecloths, the atmosphere shifted. This was where the true festivity began- the supra. Everyone contributed their homemade food and drinks, with wine taking center-stage, embodying the spirit of sharing and community; the supra a living, breathing tapestry of unity, spontaneity, and joy that would leave a lasting mark on everyone present. It was inspiring to see how this vibrant expression of solidarity complemented other powerful acts, such as the human chain that had been created along the entire Mtkvari River on December 28th.
The citizens of Georgia joined together to dance beneath the sparkling New Year decorations in the city, their movements illuminated by lights evoking the colors of the EU flag. It was a magical sight- a vivid reminder that even in the face of challenges, there is always room for joy, hope, and a profound sense of shared humanity.
Near the Kashveti Church, traditional Georgian dances unfolded, creating a mesmerizing scene that captured the essence of the nation’s culture. What made the moment even more remarkable was the presence of the President of the People, Salome Zurabishvili, who not only observed the dances, but also participated in the public supra. She graciously accepted a glass of wine offered by strangers, a gesture that symbolized unity and solidarity during this historic celebration.
Another unforgettable highlight came from the Evangelical-Baptist Church of Georgia, whose parishioners warmly distributed sweet rice and hot mushroom pilaf, a simple yet heartfelt gesture of generosity. It was delightful to witness tourists enthusiastically savoring these local dishes, immersing themselves in the rich traditions of Georgian hospitality.
The celebration wasn’t solely a gathering of the capital’s residents- it was a convergence of people from all corners of Georgia. Among the crowd, I noticed activists from the Tsnori region who had brought their own homemade churchkhela and tataras, adding a heartfelt regional touch to the event. Notable among them were the founders of Knowledge Cafe Nana Bagalishvili, and Zura Beroshvili, the owner of Terrace Signaghi, and Keti Molashvili, a key contributor to the platform HappyEUYear, which was established to support local entrepreneurs. This platform played a pivotal role in providing an alternative for those who chose not to participate in the Christmas Village in Orbeliani Square.
A striking contrast to the celebration on Rustaveli was that Christmas Village. As I passed through it, I noticed a quieter, more subdued atmosphere, with mostly tourists and Indian students wandering the area. Many of the market booths were empty, offering a stark difference from the lively, vibrant energy on Rustaveli Avenue. This juxtaposition added an intriguing layer to the evening, emphasizing how different spaces within the city reflected unique facets of the New Year festivities.
The presence of such diverse individuals and regional representatives made the event feel like a true celebration of Georgian unity and culture, transcending the boundaries of geography and bringing everyone together in a shared spirit of joy and community around the public Georgian Supra, which marked the first time in Georgian history. The supra is more than just a meal- its deep roots in both history and community continue to be a timeless symbol of the spirit that binds the people of Georgia together. This landmark event not only showcased the richness of Georgian traditions, but also highlighted the power of collective celebration in fostering solidarity and strengthening the cultural identity of the nation.
Another magical feeling was observing people bringing toys and placing them under the Christmas Tree near Parliament. This initiative, led by educator and philosopher Levan Gambashidze, aimed to collect toys and distribute them to children in need.
It was a night that reminded us all of the importance of shaping our collective spirit and cultural identity. The celebration stands as a testament to how even small acts of involvement can contribute to the greater cause of building a future where Georgia and the European Union continue to grow together, in peace and prosperity. This extraordinary and meaningful New Year celebration will surely be remembered as a milestone in Georgia’s journey toward a European future, reflecting the strength of our shared hopes, dreams, and determination.
Blog by Mariam Avakova
