In the city of Tbilisi, the capital and largest city of Georgia

 Due to the Georgian Orthodox Church’s use of the Julian calendar, Christmas is not officially celebrated in Tbilisi until January 7th. Decorations and festivities start much earlier, however, with city-wide light displays, Christmas markets, and musical performances ready to that dazzle visitors.

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(in the capital of Georgia, a country in central Asia) Tbilisi, the capital and largest city of Georgia, lies on the banks of the Kura River.Tbilisi was founded in the 5th century CE by Vakhtang I of Iberia, and since then has served as the capital of various Georgian kingdoms and republics. Between 1801 and 1917, then part of the Russian Empire, Tiflis was the seat of the Caucasus Viceroyalty, governing both the northern and the southern parts of the Caucasus. Due to its location, on the crossroads between Europe and Asia (and its proximity to the lucrative Silk Road), throughout history Tbilisi was a point of contention among various global powers. The city's location still ensures its position as an important transit route for energy and trade projects. Tbilisi's history is reflected in its architecture, which is a mixture of medieval, neoclassical, Beaux Arts, Art Nouveau, Stalinist, and the Modern structures.

+ Historically, Tbilisi has been home to people of multiple cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds, though it is overwhelmingly Eastern Orthodox Christian. Its notable tourist destinations include cathedrals Sameba and Sioni, Freedom Square, Rustaveli Avenue and Agmashenebeli Avenue, medieval Narikala Fortress, the pseudo-Moorish Opera Theater, and the Georgian National Museum.

+ With its dramatic valley setting, attractive Old Town, eclectic architecture, and superb eating and drinking opportunities, Tbilisi is the vibrant, beating heart of Georgia. Add to that the pull of the city's hipster culture, its techno scene (and general air of "cool"), and Tbilisi is steadily sealing its reputation as the South Caucasus' most cosmopolitan city.

+ While at first glance Tbilisi can seem both crowded and chaotic, many neighborhoods retain a village-like feel with their narrow streets and small shops, while the Old Town is still redolent of an ancient Eurasian crossroads, with its winding lanes, balconied houses and leafy squares (all overlooked by the 17-century-old Narikala Fortress). No matter which side of the city you might be interested in, you will almost certainly discover both on any exploration of Georgia's capital.

+ Indeed, Tbilisi is straight from the pages of a Gothic fairytale. Its deep valley forms the backdrop to brightly colored turrets, cobblestoned streets, and a burgeoning art scene, while warm Georgian hospitality permeates the mix of contemporary and traditional restaurants serving up local favorites.

+ Located in Tbilisi’s Freedom Square, the Liberty Monument (which depicts Saint George slaying a dragon) is covered with cascading lights to create a massive makeshift Christmas tree ... (in December):