Kalandoba is Guria’s local New Year, observed on 14 January in Georgia Travel’s regional account. A chichilaki made from nut-tree twigs is the holiday symbol. The page describes a mekvle visiting households the next day.

Food and household custom

The Guria guide describes greens, walnut dishes, beans with mchadi, Gurian tea and local wine. The ritual-food page places ghomi and satsivi within some Gurian feasts.

Keep household custom in view

The mekvle visit is associated with bringing happiness to the household. Ask a host or cultural venue about public celebrations. Treat a family meal as private hospitality and ask before photographing people.

  • Ask whether a Gurian table includes beans with mchadi.
  • Look for the chichilaki story around Kalandoba.

Compare regional bean dishes

Sources & checks

  • Guria regionGeorgian National Tourism Administration, Gurian holiday and food traditions. Checked 24 October 2026.
  • Georgian ritual foodsGeorgian National Tourism Administration, supra customs and regional feast distinctions. Checked 24 October 2026.

Image credits

All photography and illustration credits