Tbilisoba

Tbilisoba is an annual festival held every October in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, celebrating the city’s rich history and diverse culture. This vibrant event debuted in 1979 and has since become a cherished tradition.

The heart of Tbilisoba lies in Old Tbilisi, the historic quarter of the city, where open-air concerts featuring traditional music and dance enliven the streets. The festival celebrates not only the city’s past but also its vibrant present. One of the main highlights is the harvest fair, known as Rtveli, which attracts people from various regions of Georgia to showcase their local specialties.

A unique aspect of Tbilisoba is the awarding of honorary citizenship by the city government, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to the community.

Tbilisoba was conceived by Eduard Shevardnadze, the then First Secretary of the Communist Party of the Georgian Soviet Socialist Republic. He aimed to create a festival that celebrated the capital, steering people away from religious events and introducing new socialist traditions. Initially, the event was intended to mark Tbilisi’s 1,500-year history, but it ultimately fostered a deeper connection among Georgians with their national heritage.

The festival experienced a brief hiatus during the civil unrest of the early 1990s but made a comeback in 1995. Since then, it has been held annually, usually in the latter part of October, attracting both locals and tourists to revel in the joyous atmosphere.