Georgia’s 2024 summer highlights: festivals, food, music, and more

Summertime in Georgia is synonymous with vibrant energy and bustling activity. With its inviting climate and scenic landscapes, Georgia becomes a magnet for tourists seeking both adventure and cultural immersion. From the vibrant streets of Tbilisi to the tranquil vistas of the Caucasus, the country offers an exciting and diverse lineup of events that cater to a wide range of interests.

For Georgian sports fans, the 2024 summer has already gotten off to an exhilarating start. With the European Championships ongoing, football enthusiasts have flocked to local bars, family gatherings, and big screens set up in public spaces across Tbilisi. The country was captivated by football fanaticism in June when Georgia made history with its first showing at the European stage, and the nation was further delighted when it secured a spot in the final 16 after a surprising victory against Portugal in the group stage. Although it exited the tournament after a loss against Spain in the knockout stages on June 30, the country spent the first month of summer entranced by all-things football and held a large rally to welcome the team home in early July.

As football mania starts to slow and tourists and locals alike look to fill their calendars for July and August, Investor.ge has compiled a list of some of the biggest events to look out for – from festivals to food to music and more.

Art-Gene Festival
Taking place from July 19-21 and July 26-28, the Art-Gene Festival will take place this year at the Open-Air Museum of Ethnography in Tbilisi. This wonderful outdoor museum consists of traditional houses relocated from around Georgia – come festival time, it bursts to life with folk music, traditional crafts, culinary demonstrations, and winemaking displays from various regions. This year, visitors will also enjoy performances by Nino Katamadze and the Sukhishvili National Ballet. Tickets can be purchased at TKT.ge and range from 59 GEL (one-day pass) to 135 GEL (three-day pass).

Sukhishvili Summer Series
Georgia’s national ballet company Sukhishvili often returns home to Tbilisi from touring in the summer for a short run of performances. This year, performances will run throughout the month of July and be held at the open-air Takara theater. If you’re interested, be sure to scoop up tickets quickly – they are known to sell out!

Gudauri Summer Set
For those looking to escape the heat in the mountains of Gudauri, the Gudauri Summer Set is a must-visit. From July 26 to July 27, this festival will offer 45 hours of non-stop electronic music and mountain sports activities. The festival welcomes attendees over 18 years old, and daily tickets start from 60 GEL.

Lagodekhi Blues Festival
For three weeks, starting on July 20 and running through August 10, both nature lovers and music aficionados alike will be able to take in the sights and sounds of Blues Village, located next to the Lagodekhi Protected Areas national park. This festival, which was launched in 2017 and aims to bring some of the biggest names in blues from the U.S. to Georgia, will feature performances from Demetria Taylor, Sir Waldo Weathers, Adrian Byron Burns, and Big Daddy Wilson. You can find out more about the lineup and how to get tickets at Bluesfest.ge.

Tushetoba
For those looking for an adventure that aren’t averse to rough roads, traveling to the remote mountainous region of Tusheti for its annual festival of Tushetoba is sure to offer culinary and cultural delights. Tushetoba, which takes place in August against the breathtaking mountainous backdrop of Tusheti National Park, celebrates the traditional food, sports, and music of the region. If visiting, be sure to check out the folk performances, horse race, and khinkali-making, as well as Tushetian craft pieces on offer.

Black Sea Jazz Festival
Be sure not to miss out on the Black Sea Jazz Festival. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Batumi Tennis Club from July 26-28, 2024, the Black Sea Jazz Festival is a must-attend for anyone who loves live music. Whether you’re a longtime jazz fan or simply looking for a unique musical experience, the Black Sea Jazz Festival offers a perfect blend of stunning location and superb music, ensuring that your summer in Georgia is filled with unforgettable moments. Tickets can be purchased on TKT.ge and start at 100 GEL, with discounts available for TBC Concept members.

Tsinandali Festival
For those wishing to soak up the last bit of summer, look no further than the 6th annual Tsinandali Festival, which will take place this year from August 31 – September 8. A classical music lover’s paradise, the festival will take place at the historic Chavchavadze Estate in Tsinandali and include performances by the Pan-Caucasian Youth Center and more.