July Markets and Folk Festivals in Georgia – Traditions, Tastes, and Handicrafts

Folk Festivals: Living History

Many of Georgia’s July festivals are tied to ancient religious or seasonal celebrations. In Kakheti, the Shuamta Festival offers traditional music, horseback riding, wine tasting, and family rituals near a medieval monastery. In western Georgia, the Kolkhoba Festival blends myth and theater, retelling ancient legends by the Black Sea.

Mountain villages in Upper Adjara also host local festivals where visitors are welcomed with open arms. These events include unique dances, dialects, and foods rarely found elsewhere – offering an unforgettable, off-the-beaten-path experience.

The Flavors of Summer

Food is at the heart of every Georgian celebration. During July, tables are full of ripe summer vegetables, fresh herbs, khinkali dumplings, and homemade wines. Festivals often include live cooking shows or tasting stands, so visitors can experience local cuisine firsthand. You might even have the chance to bake traditional bread in a clay oven or help roll churchkhela – Georgia’s beloved grape-and-nut candy.

 

Crafts and Creativity

Georgia’s folk festivals also highlight traditional crafts. Artisans showcase pottery, weaving, felt-making, silverwork, and more. Many invite guests to watch – or even try – their craft. These handmade items are not just souvenirs; they are a connection to Georgian identity and pride.

Children can enjoy hands-on workshops too, making these events ideal for families traveling with kids.

Where to Go in July

If you're visiting Georgia in July, consider these destinations:

Telavi and Sighnaghi in Kakheti offer wine-themed festivals and craft markets. Batumi and the Adjara highlands feature musical celebrations, cooking events, and mountain hospitality. Mestia in Svaneti hosts highland fairs and rituals. Zugdidi in Samegrelo is home to Kolkhoba and traditional food festivals. Even in Tbilisi, you’ll find smaller folk events and weekend craft bazaars.

Conclusion

Folk festivals in Georgia are more than entertainment – they’re a celebration of life, connection, and identity. Whether you're dancing in a village, trying your hand at weaving, or sipping wine with locals, these experiences create lasting memories.

Let Georgian Holidays take you beyond the guidebook and into the heart of Georgian tradition.