Georgia's main Christmas tree lights up in central Tbilisi

Georgia's main Christmas tree was lit up in central Tbilisi in front of the Parliament building on Friday, with Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze and the country’s high officials attending the festive ceremony.

The lighting ceremony was opened with a musical theatre performance, which told the Christmas story and the tradition of putting up the festive Christmas tree.

Illuminations on Rustaveli Avenue. Photo via Tbilisi City Hall

In his address to the public, Kaladze welcomed the “residents of this beautiful, magical city [Tbilisi]” and guests from different parts of Georgia, as well as Georgia’s emigrant compatriots.

Today is a special day in our country in the recent history of Georgia. I would like to take this opportunity once again to congratulate you on [being granted] the [European Union membership] candidate status. This is the merit of every citizen of our country”, the Mayor noted.

Photo via Tbilisi City Hall

Kaladze urged the gathered audience to wish for “a better tomorrow, peace, economic development, progress, happiness, [...] prosperity” at the festive ceremony of lighting up the Christmas tree.

New Year's decorations have been lit up in other districts of Tbilisi as well, with the unveiling of the main Christmas tree concluding with a concert of Italian singer Stefano Signoroni and his band.

Photo via Tbilisi City Hall

The Christmas village will open on Saturday in the capital under the slogan ‘Tbilisi - European city’ and will host visitors till January 7 at Orbeliani Square and Dedaena Garden Park on the right bank of river Mtkvari, the Tbilisi City Hall said.

Santa Claus's house and Elves' workshop, food courts, bars, an entrepreneurial market, photo booths and an ice rink will be arranged in the Christmas village, with entertainment events including theatrical and musical performances to create a festive mood during the holiday season.