03:38Georgia: 'A unique experience' - Alilo Christmas procession staged in Tbilisi
The annual Alilo procession marched on Saturday from First Republic Square to the Sameba Cathedral in Tbilisi. The Christmas event is a long-standing tradition in Georgia, dating back 15 centuries.
In the Ruptly footage, some of the participants wore white cloaks and wreaths, symbolising angels, while others were dressed as Magi, who, according to the story, were among the first to visit the infant Jesus.
"It's similar to going a-shroving, when people gave each other sweets and congratulated [each other]. We also now bring this to the city and congratulate the whole Orthodox world," said one of the participants, Zaal Sikharulidze.
Tourists also joined the procession, along with the locals.
"For me it's something incredibly beautiful, there are so many people with a holiday spirit," said Vera, a visitor from Russia.
Natalia from Belarus added that there were a lot of people gathered, and the procession itself was 'a unique experience.'
The Alilo procession is also charity event. Tbilisi residents pass gifts and donations to participants, which are then distributed to the less well-off, orphanages, and residents of nursing homes.
03:38Music at source may be subject to copyright
The annual Alilo procession marched on Saturday from First Republic Square to the Sameba Cathedral in Tbilisi. The Christmas event is a long-standing tradition in Georgia, dating back 15 centuries.
In the Ruptly footage, some of the participants wore white cloaks and wreaths, symbolising angels, while others were dressed as Magi, who, according to the story, were among the first to visit the infant Jesus.
"It's similar to going a-shroving, when people gave each other sweets and congratulated [each other]. We also now bring this to the city and congratulate the whole Orthodox world," said one of the participants, Zaal Sikharulidze.
Tourists also joined the procession, along with the locals.
"For me it's something incredibly beautiful, there are so many people with a holiday spirit," said Vera, a visitor from Russia.
Natalia from Belarus added that there were a lot of people gathered, and the procession itself was 'a unique experience.'
The Alilo procession is also charity event. Tbilisi residents pass gifts and donations to participants, which are then distributed to the less well-off, orphanages, and residents of nursing homes.