Georgian Easter works to the Orthodox Calendar, meaning it may come before or after the Western version. While it is about the same Christ and the same crucifixion and resurrection as known in the West, Georgians, like many Eastern Europeans, have their own particular traditions this time of year. Check them out below.

The Feast

The fast officially ends on the Saturday night and the devoted remain in church from early evening until well after midnight to welcome the resurrection of Christ and exchange well-wishes (“Kristi aghsdga!” (Christ is risen!); “Cheshmaritad” (He truly is!). After this, people head home for a grand feast and drinking session. Then back to church the next day- often slightly worse for wear but celebratory, nonetheless.

Visiting the Dead

On Easter Monday, it is tradition for all family members to go to the cemetery where they lay eggs, pasca cakes, a glass of wine and candles on the graves of loved ones. If you tag along, you’ll be sure to notice the beggars- from Kurd children to the elderly and disabled, who, aside from taking your generously given coins, will go about picking up the eggs and bread after you move away from the family grave. A fine example of “waste not, want not,” and in general well-enough tolerated by the locals.

To find about about the food Georgians eat at Easter, see here.

Image source: ryanphunter