New year in Georgia – Gets Ready for 2026

Georgia Gets Ready for 2026: Christmas Trees Light Up Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Mestia

Photo by Badri Vadachkoria

Tbilisi: No snow but a lot of fun

The capital city has truly transformed into a wonderland of lights. This year’s slogan, “A City Full of Kindness,” captures the warm atmosphere despite the mild winter weather. The main Christmas tree at First Republic Square was ceremonially lit on December 12, and the surrounding “New Year Village” has been drawing crowds every evening since. The tree itself is spectacular – towering over the square with cascading strings of warm white lights and blue star decorations creating a shimmering waterfall effect. Below, illuminated red flower installations add a touch of Georgian character to the festive scene. Interestingly, there’s no snow in Tbilisi this year – typical for the capital, where temperatures hover between 5-10°C in late December. The mild weather actually makes it perfect for evening strolls through the decorated streets. The sulfur bath district, Shardeni Street, and the area around Narikala Fortress are all beautifully lit. For detailed information about New Year celebrations, events, restaurants, and club parties in the capital, check out our complete guide: How to Ring in 2026 in Georgia: Your Ultimate Guide to New Year in Tbilisi.

Photo by Badri Vadachkoria

Kutaisi: Snow Has Arrived!

Western Georgia’s main city is experiencing something special this year – snow! Unlike Tbilisi, Kutaisi has received snowfall, adding an extra layer of magic to the holiday atmosphere. The Christmas tree in front of the Kutaisi Opera House is a stunning sight. The neoclassical curved facade of the opera provides a dramatic backdrop for the decorated tree, which glows with golden lights and butterfly ornaments. The illuminated “2026” sign at the base marks the approaching new year, while elegant lamp posts on either side add to the theatrical atmosphere. The snow-dusted streets of Kutaisi make evening walks particularly enchanting. The city is less crowded than Tbilisi, offering a more intimate holiday experience. If you’re flying into David the Builder Kutaisi International Airport, you’ll land right in this winter wonderland.

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Mestia: A True Winter Wonderland

If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, Svaneti is where you need to be. Mestia has plenty of snow on the ground, transforming this UNESCO-protected region into a postcard-perfect destination. The medieval defensive towers of Mestia look absolutely magnificent, covered in snow, with the Caucasus peaks rising behind them. The ski resorts – Hatsvali (6 km from downtown) and Tetnuldi (15 km away) – are fully operational, making it perfect for combining New Year celebrations with skiing. New Year’s Eve in Mestia has its own special character. Smaller crowds, traditional Svan hospitality, and the chance to toast 2026 surrounded by some of Europe’s most dramatic mountain scenery. Many guesthouses organize special New Year’s dinners featuring local Svan dishes. For a truly unique experience, consider a winter tour to Ushguli – the highest continuously inhabited village in Europe, which looks absolutely magical under snow.

Photo from the municipality’s official Facebook page

Planning Your Holiday Visit

Here’s a quick comparison for planning your New Year trip: Tbilisi – No snow, mild weather (5-10°C), biggest celebrations, most dining and entertainment options, easy to combine with wine tours to Kakheti Kutaisi – Snow on the ground, smaller city atmosphere, good base for exploring caves and canyons of Imereti, direct flights from many European cities Mestia – Plenty of snow, ski resort access, authentic mountain village atmosphere, unforgettable scenery, perfect for adventure seekers Whichever destination you choose, you’re in for a memorable experience. Georgian hospitality shines brightest during the holidays, and the tradition of lavish New Year feasts – with the table laden with khinkali, khachapuri, satsivi, and countless toasts – makes this one of the best times to visit. Don’t forget – January 2nd is “Bedoba” in Georgian tradition, the Day of Destiny. How you spend this day is believed to define your entire year. So plan something wonderful! Learn more about when to travel to Georgia and snow conditions across the country.