Winter Fair 2016: Tbilisi entertains visitors, raises funds for those in need

People who want to sample delicious food and traditional crafts from all over the world, and help raise funds for charitable projects in Georgia, are invited to visit the Winter Fair 2016 in Tbilisi today.

International Women’s Association Georgia (IWAG) is today hosting the annual event at the Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel in central Tbilisi from 10am to 6pm.

The objective is to raise funds and support projects in Georgia with a focus on women, children and elderly people who are at risk due to poverty, poor health and disabilities.

What attractions can you enjoy today?

Numerous stands have been set up where guests can purchase souvenirs, decorations, crafts, and food items from a range of countries. In addition, there are 26 Embassies accredited in Georgia and two international organisations with stalls at today's celebration.

Khoncha, a decorated plate filled with bread, sweets, pomegranate, nuts, wine, and ritual breads that originated in eastern Georgia during the New Year celebration. Photo by Nino Alavidze/Agenda.ge

Families can also shop from numerous Georgian artisans’ tables, sample dishes from around the world and have a photo taken with Santa Claus. 

This year there will be a kid’s corner with professional staff where guests can leave their children as they enjoy the international fair. 

The event is traditionally held in the pre-Christmas period and this year is the 17th annual Winter Fair in IWAG history.

The participating countries and organisations are: Azerbaijan, Brazil, Bulgaria, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Italy, Iran, Ireland, Japan, Lithuania, Poland, Qatar, Slovakia, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United States of America as well as NATO and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

All of the good stuff is sold quickly so the early you come the better things you get,” said organisers.

The International Women's Association Georgia is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation and part of the International Women's Association worldwide network. The organisation strives to enhance its members’ understanding of Georgia, which enables life to be easier for expatriates. Its members are wives of diplomats accredited in Georgia and other foreigners.