Zezvaoba (Alvani)
A Tushetian community festival in the lowland village of Alvani, with horse racing and folk music before the move to summer pastures.
Many Tush families winter in Kvemo and Zemo Alvani, in the Alazani Valley, and drive their flocks up to Tusheti once the road over the Abano Pass opens. Zezvaoba, named after a local hero, gathers them in late spring for horse races, wrestling, singing and a big shared meal.
It is a small, local event rather than a show for tourists, and it suits travellers heading to Tusheti or exploring the Akhmeta side of Kakheti.
- Confirm the date with a Tushetian guesthouse or guide; it is not always publicised.
- Alvani is the starting point for 4x4 transfers to Omalo once the road opens, usually in June.
Last checked Oct 2026 by the Maspindzeli team. Mountain conditions change: ask us before you go.
More in May and after
A church-backed day off with a large procession in central Tbilisi.
26 May 2027Independence Day (26 May)Georgia's national day, marking the 1918 Democratic Republic, with flags, concerts and fairs in Tbilisi.
2 May 2027 (expected)Kutaisoba (Kutaisi City Day)Kutaisi's spring city festival, with concerts, folk dance and market stalls in the centre.