Georgia About

On 26 May 1918, in the midst of the Russian Civil War, Georgia declared independence and The Democratic Republic of Georgia was created. The flag of independent Georgia (Georgian: საქართველოს სახელმწიფო დროშა), also known as the Five Cross Flag (Georgian: ხუთჯვრიანი დროშა) was adopted in January 2004.

Celebrating Independence Day. Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Energy

The day is a national holiday and celebrations are held throughout Georgia and by Georgians living overseas.

Independence Day celebrations in Tbilisi. Photo courtesy of Ministry of Internal Affairs

The President of Georgia and the Prime Minister gave speeches in Freedom Square (Georgian: თავისუფლების მოედანი) in Tbilisi. The location was first named Freedom Square in 1918, during the foundation of the First Georgian Republic following the collapse of the Russian Empire. During the Soviet period, the square contained a large statue of Lenin, which was symbolically torn down in August 1991.

Freedom Square in Tbilisi. Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Defence

Celebrations are held in every village, town and city and special events are staged in historical venues such as Rabati Castle.

Enjoying the Independence Day celebrations at Rabati Castle. Photo courtesy of the Government of Georgia.

Independence Day is especially celebrated with traditional songs and dance.

Traditional Georgian Folk singers. Photo courtesy of the Government of Georgia

Traditional Dancers. Photo courtesy of the Government of Georgia

Competitions are held throughout the country.

The winner of a wrestling competition receives his prize. Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs

A cycle race on Independence Day. Photo courtesy of the Government of Georgia.

A display of horsemanship at Rabati Castle. Photo courtesy of the Georgian Government

The streets are lined with stalls selling Georgian produce and crafts.

Browsing the stalls. Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Agriculture

Wine stall in Tbilisi on Independence Day. Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Agriculture

Processions are held.

Celebrating Independence Day. Photo courtesy of the Georgian Government

A street procession on Independence Day. Photo courtesy of the Government of Georgia

Independence Day is a day to celebrate!

Dancers in Ajara Region. Photo courtesy of the Government of Georgia

Georgia celebrates Independence Day!

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