Georgian Village Brings Ancient Spring Festival Back to Life

Every spring, the quiet village of Didi Chailuri in Georgia's Kakheti region explodes with color, noise, and ancient tradition as masked performers run through its streets celebrating hope for a fertile season ahead.

The festival is called Berikaoba, a pagan ritual that likely predates Christianity in this corner of the Caucasus. Performers called berikas wear traditional masks, crack whips, and playfully smear mud on villagers as they dash from house to house collecting bread, wine, and sweets.

Nika Saginashvili has worn the berika mask for 16 years. He explains that a good berika must keep running no matter the weather, bringing energy and excitement without ever frightening children. It's a role that requires stamina, respect for tradition, and a generous spirit.

The festival nearly vanished during Soviet times when many religious and cultural traditions were discouraged or banned. For years, the masks gathered dust and the running stopped, threatening to erase centuries of cultural memory.

Then local teacher Eka Veshapidze decided enough was enough. She rallied her neighbors, taught young people the old ways, and slowly breathed life back into the tradition. What started small has grown into a full village celebration that draws participants and visitors each spring.

The Ripple Effect

The revival of Berikaoba represents something bigger than one festival. Across Georgia and throughout Eastern Europe, communities are reclaiming traditions that were nearly lost, strengthening cultural identity and bringing generations together.

Young Georgians who might have left for cities now have a reason to return each spring. Elders who remember the old ways finally have eager students. The festival creates a living bridge between past and future.

By evening, the village gathers to share kada bread and pelamushi grape pudding. Traditional chidaoba wrestling matches test strength and skill. Then, as darkness falls, calm gradually returns to Didi Chailuri until the berikas run again next spring.

One teacher's determination has ensured that this ancient celebration of fertility, community, and seasonal renewal won't be forgotten again.