Chichilaki selling

Georgia’s distinctive Christmas tree, called the chichilaki (ჩიჩილაკი), originated in the country’s western regions of Guria and Samegrelo. Branches are pruned from hazelnut trees then soaked in water, dried in front of a stove, and finally carved using a special knife, peeling back layers of the branch to create the “leaves” of the tree. Chichilakis can be decorated with red berries and dried fruits and are traditionally burned on the 19th of January to symbolize the end of the previous year’s struggles. The distinctive form of the chichilaki is said to resemble rays from the sun or the beard of Saint Basil the Great. Due to their cultural significance the sale of chichilakis was banned while Georgia was ruled by the Soviet Union, but in the present century they are a common sight throughout the country during Christmastime.

Each of our trees are hand-crafted by students at Alpha-Omega school, all proceeds being used for the individual student’s academic journey. This fundraiser is used as a way to teach budgeting and business skills. Fill in the box below to contact us and place an order!