TRADITIONS
One of the many things that makes Georgians stand out from any other nation in the world is their love and respect toward traditions. While being acceptive and tolerant, Georgian people would love to share their most interesting and surprising traditions with their guests, which clearly shows all the love that this nation carries in its heart.
Every table should have its toastmaster
One of the most important components of Georgian hospitality is food and the table. It is crucial for these people to make sure that their friends, family, and guests have the best time possible. That is why each table has its toastmaster, or, as they call it, tamada. The toastmaster or tamada is responsible for inspiring and entertaining those around the table, and this effect is mainly reached through interesting stories and toasts which one more time, represent the love and affection that Georgian people have toward their fellows.
Minerals, not Medicine
From ancient times Georgians believe in the power of minerals. As they put it, mineral water is the best cure for any type of health problems. In a town called Borjomi, located in the center of the country, in a volcanic region, a naturally carbonated mineral water is available, that is said to cure any misfortune from food poisoning to even more serious conditions.
Not one, but two New Years
One of the most awaited celebrations for Georgian people is the New Year. The evidence of this is that they are used to celebrate it twice. Once on January 1st, and later on January 14th which is known as “Old New Year.” January 2nd is also an important day for all Georgians-the day of luck. There is a common belief that whatever happens on this day indicates how the rest of the year would continue. Thus, January 2nd is a day full of even more love and joy, to make sure that all the other 363 days would be filled with positive emotions as well.
A wedding to be continued
As a traditional nation, Georgians pay a close attention to weddings. While a wedding celebrates the emergence of a tie between two hearts, Georgians go beyond that by creating an even closer relationship with two sides of the families. After the wedding day, they celebrate what is called a “leftover day.” The reason for such a name is that they bring all the food left from the wedding day and continue the celebration.
Church outside of the church
There is a common tradition among Georgians: after Easter Sunday they visit the graveyards of their beloved ones who have passed away. This may seem a little bit unusual, but the process has a sacred meaning for many Georgians. The reason is the following: during the Soviet era, when churches were closed, the only place where Georgian people could pay tribute and light a candle for their loved ones were the graveyards. Although the churches are wide open and commonly respected in the country nowadays, the tradition still remains and continues to carry its deep meaning.