In Georgia, celebrating isn’t just something you do — it’s a full-on production, a marathon of joy, food, and wine that will have you wondering if you accidentally signed up for an Olympic event. Weddings here can last days (yes, days), and the party only ends when the last toast has been made, the last dance spun, and the last slice of khachapuri has disappeared.
The Georgian Wedding: More Than Just Saying “I Do”
If you think a wedding is just a ceremony and a cake, think again. Georgian weddings are like an all-you-can-eat buffet of traditions — plus a whole lot of toasting. The star of the show? The Tamada — basically the ultimate hype person who controls the feast with a microphone (or just a loud voice) and a bottomless glass of wine.
The Tamada’s job is to make sure everyone drinks, laughs, and cries (sometimes all at once) while delivering toasts so moving you might forget you’re basically at a big family party. Spoiler: refusing a toast is considered a serious offense. So, loosen up!
Wine: Georgia’s Favorite Reason to Party
Georgians take their wine seriously — so seriously that it’s made in huge clay pots called qvevris buried underground, like a secret wine treasure. Wine isn’t just a drink here, it’s basically the life coach of the party: encouraging everyone to relax, make friends, and maybe attempt that traditional dance move you’ve been avoiding.
At every supra (that’s the Georgian feast), wine flows like the rivers through the Caucasus — generously, warmly, and sometimes with surprise consequences (like suddenly discovering you CAN sing polyphonic songs after all).
Dance Like Nobody’s Watching (Except Everyone Is)
Georgian dance is dramatic, energetic, and occasionally looks like a friendly competition to see who can leap the highest or spin the fastest. From the tough mountain guys showing off their moves to the graceful ladies who make every step look effortless, these dances tell stories you didn’t know you wanted to hear — in footwork.
And if you’re lucky, you might get dragged onto the floor. Don’t worry, even if your moves are more “awkward tourist” than “professional dancer,” the spirit of the celebration will have everyone cheering you on.
More Than a Party — It’s a Full Cultural Workout
Georgian celebrations are an experience — a wild, wonderful mix of food, wine, stories, and dance that will leave you feeling like part of the family (and possibly needing a nap).
At 11 Regions, we’ll help you dive right in — no boring tourist stuff, just real, unforgettable moments. So bring your appetite, your dancing shoes, and maybe a stretchy belt. You’re going to need it.
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