Independence Day marked with events across Georgia

Cities across Georgia are marking Independence Day with events and exhibitions for residents and visitors today, with the main programme hosted in the capital Tbilisi throughout the day.

The annual celebrations are marked after May 26, 1918 – the day the Act of Independence established the First Democratic Republic of the country - under the theme “What Makes Us Proud and Unites Us”.

Traditionally, at 10:00 AM the new recruits of the Georgian Defence Forces took an oath in six cities including the capital.

Organised by the Government Administration, Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi and 18 other cities are marking the date with various events and activities:

• Wine space - this space offers visitors a sommelier master class, tasting of different types of wine, and introduction to characteristics of specific types of wine.

• Children’s space - young visitors of the celebrations can enjoy a candy area, giant xylophone and swing, fairytale characters, as well as screening of Georgian animations and concerts.

• Food zone - those on the Avenue have the opportunity to attend various culinary masterclasses and learn about Georgian gastronomy.

• Sports zone - this offers visitors to join competitions and meet acclaimed athletes.

• Music and theatre space - radio cafés are set up in this section to host live broadcasting with “various programmes and guests”. A literature café will offer a stage to young authors, poets and artists.

At 5:10 PM  the historic moment of the declaration of Georgia's independence will be solemnly celebrated. The national anthem of Georgia will be performed by 300 children, among whom will be students of Georgian community schools operating abroad.

Georgian Interior Ministry is hosting the citizens in central Georgia's city of Gori with the various information and exhibition stands by units of the Ministry, as well as special equipment and helicopters of the Patrol Police Department, Border Police and Emergency Management Service.

The Independence Day programme will be concluded with a gala concert on the First Republic Square in Tbilisi, with about 1000 artists of folk ensembles from all parts of Georgia participating in the event.