Tbilisi holds traditional Alilo Christmas procession

The traditional Alilo Christmas procession took place in Tbilisi, Georgia.

Residents marched through the city’s central streets, singing church hymns and Christmas carols, Caliber.Az reports, citing Georgian media.

Citizens donated funds during the procession, which will later be directed to those in need, including orphans and elderly care homes.

Clergy and parishioners of the Georgian Orthodox Church, along with local residents and visitors, took part in the event. Many wore traditional costumes and outfits representing biblical figures such as angels, magi, and shepherds, carrying crosses, icons, and Christmas symbols.

Alilo is an annual procession held on January 7 across Georgian cities to celebrate Christmas. The tradition, with a history of over 1,500 years, was revived in 2000 with the blessing of Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Ilia II after being banned during Soviet rule. 

By Jeyhun Aghazada