Rtveli: Let’s celebrate Georgia’s grape harvest festival

This children’s article, Rtveli: Let’s celebrate Georgia’s grape harvest festival, has been written for native English speakers and learners of English as a second or foreign language. It can help children practise reading and comprehension, learn useful vocabulary, and discover a unique celebration in Georgia, a country many people may not have heard of. Written by Sinead O’Carroll, an experienced teacher and writer.

A special festival in Georgia

In the small country of Georgia, in the Caucasus Mountains between Europe and Asia, autumn is a time of celebration. Every year in September or October, families, friends, and neighbours come together for Rtveli, the grape harvest festival. It is one of Georgia’s oldest and most important traditions.

Ancient roots of Rtveli

Georgia is known as one of the first places in the world where people began making wine. Archaeologists believe this started more than 8,000 years ago. Rtveli grew from this harvest and became a cultural celebration passed down through the centuries. The timing of the harvest often follows the phases of the moon, which people believe helps ensure the best grapes.

Work in the vineyards

The festival begins in the vineyards, where people rise early to pick the ripest grapes before the day becomes too hot. Harvesting is hard work, but it is also joyful because everyone helps one another. Visitors are often invited to join in, making Rtveli both a community event and a warm welcome for outsiders.

Feasts, music, and dance

When the grape picking is finished, the celebrations begin. The highlight is the supra, a traditional Georgian feast. Long tables are set with breads, cheeses, stews, meats, and vegetables, all shared with family and guests.

Georgian hospitality is famous, and at Rtveli it shines brightly. Music and dancing are also part of the festival, with traditional instruments and folk dances filling the evening with energy.

Sweet autumn treats

Another favourite part of Rtveli is making churchkhela. This chewy snack is made by dipping strings of walnuts or hazelnuts into thick grape juice and then leaving them to dry. It looks a little like a candle and is enjoyed across Georgia as a special autumn treat.

More than a harvest

Rtveli is about much more than grapes. It is a time to honour the land, celebrate nature’s gifts, and bring communities together. For Georgians, it represents tradition, respect for the earth, and joy in sharing food and music. For visitors, it offers a chance to experience a culture that has lasted thousands of years.

You can read more about Georgian traditions on Georgia.to.

Article vocabulary list

• Caucasus Mountains: A mountain range between Europe and Asia.
  
• Tradition: A custom or way of doing things passed down through time.
  
• Archaeologist: A scientist who studies ancient people and their history.
  
• Harvest: The act of gathering ripe crops from the fields.
  
• Vineyard: A field where grapevines are grown.
  
• Supra: A traditional Georgian feast with many dishes.
  
• Churchkhela: A Georgian sweet made from nuts and grape juice.
  
• Hospitality: A friendly and generous way of welcoming guests.

Comprehension questions

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