Autumn Festivals
Autumn Festivals
If you plan to visit Ajara during the autumn season, you're in for a treat as there are many festivals and cultural events that take place during this time, making the autumn season in Batumi and Ajara particularly special. Additionally, the "velvet season" of the sea adds a charming touch to a vacation in Batumi and Ajara. Even in September, visitors can enjoy the warm sea and beach. If you haven't decided where to spend your autumn evenings, consider visiting Batumi and taking part in all the important festivals yourself.
Bird watching festival
The "Birdwatching" international bird festival is a must-attend event for those interested in ornithology, and it's particularly popular among both foreign and domestic tourists. Ajara is one of the world's largest bird migration corridors, and from August 15 to October 15, more than 1 million birds of prey pass through on their way to Africa. During the festival, two bird-watching platforms are set up on Mtirala mountain, in Shuamta village and Chaisubani, and in Sakhalvasho village and Chakvistavi village, for the convenience of visitors.
Other popular bird-watching locations in Ajara include the Chorokhi Delta, Ispani Peatland, Mtirala and Kolkheti National Parks. The festival infrastructure also includes opportunities for visitors to relax and try local dishes while enjoying bird watching.
The Bird Watching Festival, which has been held annually since 2012, is a significant event that brings together tourism and education activities. Ajara is one of the few places in the world where visitors can enjoy bird watching, and once you experience it, you will likely want to come back. This festival is an important event for ornithology and bird watching enthusiasts.
“Gandagana” Festival
The "Gandagana" festival is a celebration of Ajarian culture, featuring traditional Adjarian embroidery, products, dances, dishes, handicrafts, and decorations. The festival has grown in popularity over the years and is a great way to experience the culture and traditions of mountainous Ajara without leaving the city.
At the festival, visitors can prepare and taste traditional dishes from different parts of Ajara, take part in folklore shows, and sample delicious local products such as chkhaveri, dairy products, fruits, and sweets. The festival is suitable for people of all interests and ages, and it is a great opportunity to experience the diversity and richness of Ajarian culture, cuisine, and traditions. The festival takes place over two days and it showcases the products of all six municipalities of Ajara through exhibition and sale. After visiting the Gandagana festival, you will have a deeper understanding of the unique culture, cuisine, and traditions of Ajara.
The BIAFF International Batumi Author Film Festival
The BIAFF International Batumi Author Film Festival is a must-see event for movie enthusiasts visiting Ajara in the fall. Held annually in September, the festival brings together filmmakers and fans of cinematography in Batumi, where they can enjoy the best collections of feature, documentary, and short films. Each year the festival program offers particularly interesting content, making it a perfect opportunity to enjoy a trip to the cinema.
The screenings take place both in Batumi's oldest cinema, "Apollo," and in the open air on Europe Square in old Batumi. Visitors should not miss these festive days in the city, and make sure to mark their favorite movies and collect unforgettable memories with their loved ones.
In addition to film screenings, BIAFF also hosts master classes and meetings with famous directors, which are open to the public to attend for free.
International Classical Music Festival Batumi MusicFest
Since 2013, the International Classical Music Festival BATUMI MusicFest has been kicking off the autumn festival season in Ajara and Batumi. The festival is a week-long event that attracts world-class musicians and music enthusiasts to the seaside town, filling it with the sounds of classical music for seven days.
The festival is a member of the European Festivals Association (EFA), an organization that brings together 100 of the most significant and large-scale festivals from 40 countries, such as the Edinburgh Festival and the BBC Festival.
The Batumi Music Festival is held annually at the State Music Center, a 1100-seat venue built in the neoclassical style with marble and glass.
