Festivals and Events in Tbilisi Georgia

Celebrating Tbilisi: A Guide to Local Festivals & Events

Tbilisi, the vibrant capital of Georgia, comes alive throughout the year with a tapestry of colorful festivals and events that showcase its rich cultural heritage and modern dynamism. Here’s a glimpse into some of the local festivities you can experience in this captivating city:

Traditional Festivals:

  • Tbilisoba: (Tbilisi Tbilisi) This annual festival, held on the last weekend of October, celebrates the city of Tbilisi with traditional Georgian food, music, dance, and crafts. It’s a massive event with a festive atmosphere that draws locals and visitors alike.
  • Rtveli: While not strictly a “Tbilisi” festival, this ancient grape harvest tradition often spills over into the city. In late autumn (September/October), you might find local celebrations popping up in honor of this crucial cultural event.

Cultural Events:

  • Tbilisi International Festival of Theatre: Held every year in September, this festival showcases performances from renowned theatre companies and artists worldwide.
  • Open Air Film Festivals: Various open-air film festivals take place throughout the year, often screening independent and arthouse films in picturesque settings around Tbilisi.
  • Tbilisian Wine Days: This event celebrates Georgian wine culture with tastings, workshops, and events showcasing the country’s diverse winemaking traditions.

Festivals & Events Focused on Music & Arts:

  • Tbilisi Jazz Festival: Held annually in April, this festival features international jazz musicians and attracts a large audience of music enthusiasts.
  • Summer Music Festivals: Tbilisi hosts numerous outdoor music festivals during the warmer months, showcasing genres like folk music, electronic dance music (EDM), and classical music.

Cultural & Artistic Experiences:

  • Wine Tastings: Immerse yourself in the world of Georgian wine by attending tastings and events at wineries or local markets, experiencing the unique flavors and traditions of this ancient winemaking region.
  • Exploring Local Markets: Visit bustling farmers’ markets like Dezerter Bazaar or the Dry Bridge Market to find locally-produced food and beverages, traditional crafts, and unique souvenirs during the festival season.

Cultural Festivals in Tbilisi:

  • Tbilisoba (October): This event typically features a variety of events such as:
    • Traditional Georgian music and dance performances: Enjoy the vibrant sounds of folk music and dance from across the country.
    • Craft workshops and demonstrations: Learn about the ancient art forms of Georgia through interactive demonstrations.
    • Local food stalls with traditional dishes: Sample delicious Georgian cuisine alongside the festivities.

Keep in mind:

  • Traditional festivals are often celebrated locally and not in the capital itself.

  • The dates for these events can vary based on the specific occasion.

  • Tbilisoba is a great example of how Tbilisi embraces its cultural heritage.

    • Traditional Georgian cuisine: Enjoy a feast of delicious food and drinks like chacha, khinkali, and khachapuri.

  • Local Markets: These are fantastic for experiencing the city’s atmosphere and finding fresh produce and artisanal goods.

For a specific list of festivals and events happening during your visit, it’s best to check local listings closer to the date.

Tbilisi is known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Here are some resources for finding current events in Tbilisi:

  • Local Event Websites:

  • Social Media: Search for #Tbilisifood and #Tbilisievents on platforms like Instagram or Facebook to see what’s happening in the city.

  • Local Tourism Websites: Many websites offer information about events in Tbilisi, such as:

  • Local Event Calendars:

  • Local Blogs and Websites: Search for “Tbilisi Festivals” or “Things to do in Tbilisi” on your preferred search engine to find blogs with up-to-date information about the cultural scene.

By utilizing these resources, you can easily discover the vibrant festivals and events happening in Tbilisi during your visit.