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Tezeri Villagers Celebrate New Year by Burning Chichilaki

1/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Natia Gedenidze, a local villager in Tezeri, Georgia, marks the New Year by burning a chichilaki, a tree symbolizing letting go.
Chichilaki is made from walnut or hazelnut branches and is popular in western Georgia, displayed during Georgian Orthodox Christmas on January 7.
Epiphany, January 19, marks the ceremonial burning to signify letting go of past troubles.
Zura Shevardnadze, a local shop owner, sells chichilaki to preserve the tradition.

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Story summary

Natia Gedenidze, a local villager in Tezeri, Georgia, marks the New Year by burning a chichilaki, a tree symbolizing letting go.
Chichilaki is made from walnut or hazelnut branches and is popular in western Georgia, displayed during Georgian Orthodox Christmas on January 7.
Epiphany, January 19, marks the ceremonial burning to signify letting go of past troubles.
Zura Shevardnadze, a local shop owner, sells chichilaki to preserve the tradition.