Dining with the Dead: Georgian Families' Graveyard Feasts 2024

Eating with the dead? An odd but heart-warming Easter tradition in Georgia

Best time: May 3–6, 2024

The tradition to share a meal with deceased loved ones lives in many Orthodox Christian countries, however, Georgia takes it to a different level. Here, it is a tradition deeply felt and lived through several times during the year, being especially popular on the Orthodox Easter day. If you go to a cemetery at this time, you will see families having picnics and drinking wine at the graves and celebrating the holiday with much passion.

When?

The Graveyard Feasts tradition is most observed on the Easter day, which is not the same day as the Western Easter. However, it is also observed on other occasions, such as the Day of the Deceased, the anniversary of a loved one's death, or the church ritual of remembrance gatherings. The best time to experience the tradition is during the Orthodox Easter period, which takes place in May. By visiting during this time, you're sure to witness the unique tradition and festivities.

Practical info

Where are the best cemeteries to observe the Graveyard Feasts tradition in Georgia?

Graveyard Feasts tradition is held throughout Georgia, with some regions displaying more prominent celebrations than others. The Vake Cemetery, Didube Pantheon, and Saburtalo Cemetery in Tbilisi are popular for their festivities. Mtskheta or Svetitshkhoveli Cathedral is the burial spots of several Georgian kings, offering a unique experience of the tradition. For visitors interested in witnessing this tradition, Alaverdi Cathedral in Kakheti is a popular destination as well. However, it is celebrated in many other cemeteries and Churches across Georgia, providing plenty of opportunities to witness it.

How did the Graveyard Feasts tradition start in Georgia?

Graveyard Feasts tradition in Georgia has its roots in the country's Orthodox Christian beliefs. The practice began as early as the Middle Ages by commemorating the memory of loved ones by visiting monasteries and monastic graveyards during religious festivals designating festivities or supra. Through this tradition of celebrating the memory of loved ones, the Graveyard Feasts started taking place in cemeteries. Currently, the tradition has become an essential element of Georgian Orthodox Christianity, and families regularly observe it on Easter and other occasions.

What are the typical foods served during the Easter Graveyard Feasts in Georgia?

The Easter Graveyard Feasts in Georgia are a time for cheer and families to gather in celebration with traditional Georgian cuisine. The foods include 'khachapuri,' bread stuffed with cheese, 'badrijani,' eggplant with walnut paste, chicken, beef, lamb, 'pkhali,' spinach, beetroot, and walnut dip, potato salad, and wine. It is customary for families to lay a table filled with their loved ones' favorite dishes and invite guests to share the moment in celebrating the memory of their departed relatives.

Are there any specific customs or etiquettes to adhere to during Graveyard Feasts in Georgia?

Graveyard Feasts tradition in Georgia has some customs and etiquettes to observe. Firstly, invite guests to join and share food and wine during the event. Secondly, ensure you clean and dispose of all rubbish correctly after the event. It is also important to clean and tidy the graves and decorate them with flowers or ornaments before the day. Most importantly, the tradition is a time for remembrance and commemorating loved ones who have passed away, so it is fundamental to show respect and solemnity towards them. Avoid causing any disturbance, loud noise, or rowdy behavior.

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