Georgia celebrates Christmas

Members of the Georgian Orthodox Church, together with part of the Orthodox world, celebrate Christmas today, according to the Julian calendar.

The majority of Georgias population is Orthodox Christian so today is a public holiday in Georgia.

At 2pm today, Georgians will mark the occasion and march through the streets, singing Christmas carols and exchanging gifts.

The march is called Alilo and originated in ancient times although it has again become popular in Georgia within recent years.

Participants of Alilo will start the march at the Rose Square in Tbilisi and pass along the main streets. The roads will be closed to cars while people make their way up the streets. The public are invited to take part and donate a gift or some candy, which will later be  distributed to orphanages and shelters for the poor.

Yesterday night at 11pm, a liturgy begun in the Holy Trinity Church. The ceremony was led by the Patriarch of Georgia Ilia II, as well as  members of the Holy Synod and clergymen. The celebration continues overnight in all Orthodox churches of Georgia.

On Christmas night, the believers will light candles in their homes and place them next to windows, so the light can be seen from outside. This tradition is observed in memory of the biblical story of Joseph and Mary searching for a shelter to give birth to Jesus. It is believed the lights will guide the Christmas Angel the way to your house.

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As the difference between Gregorian and Julian Calendars is two weeks, religious believers will celebrate a second New Year on January 14. Revelers are expected to let off fireworks and enjoy the occasion with family. This is also a good opportunity to make another New Year wish.