The main Christmas tree of the Georgian capital was officially lit up in the First Republic Square by Prime Minister Mamuka Bakhtadze and Mayor Kakha Kaladze on Saturday.

A special concert and performances were held at the opening ceremony with the participation of Georgian singers, ballet dancers, Movement Theater actors, a team of young gymnasts and the First Art School Choir.

The main Christmas tree is to be surrounded by a Christmas village and fair from December 25 to January 7 on First Republic Square, where visitors can enjoy entertainment, including concerts, taste Georgian food and wine and buy souvenirs and handmade crafts.

At the ceremony, the Mayor addressed the guests and especially the children, noting that everything is being done for Tbilisi residents to help them properly celebrate Christmas and New Year.

“I congratulate you on Christmas and New Year. First of all, I would like to wish the entire country peace and success. We have been through a lot of difficulties, many problems, but many good things have been done: many reforms were implemented. The challenges still exist, but I’m convinced that with our united efforts, with the spirit we have today, we will be able to cope with the challenges and solve those problems together. I wish you all health and longevity,” Kaladze told the crowd.

Georgian Prime Minister also addressed people. He noted that the government is doing its best to ensure that 2019 is a better year than 2018.

Bakhtadze thanked the Mayor for his efforts and hard work and wished the population ‘happy holidays.’

“2018 has not been the easiest for our country. Most of our citizens are unfortunately still living in difficult conditions. Today, Georgia needs unity as never before. With the great love, motivation, and most importantly, with our joint efforts, we will solve all the problems,” he stated.

The PM especially thanked the population for their trust towards the ruling party-supported presidential candidate Salome Zurabishvili, who became Georgia’s first female president this month.

“I would like to welcome and congratulate our diaspora and our citizens living in the occupied territories. I am sure that we will achieve a lot with our unity. Merry Christmas and a happy New Year! I wish you peace, unanimity, happiness, and the prosperity and advancement of our homeland,” Bakhtadze said.

By Thea Morrison