CNN travel had included Tbilisi in its list of European towns and cities that are “magical at Christmas”.

“For those who just can’t let go of Christmas, Georgia, and its capital Tbilisi in particular, should be their number one festive destination.

The country is majority Orthodox Christian and follows the Georgian rather than Julian calendar, meaning Christmas falls on January 7 rather than December 25.

While festivities continue well into the New Year, the main day of celebration here is December 31, when locals exchange gifts and a wild, impromptu fireworks display lights up the city.

The vast New Year tree outside the old Parliament building on Rustaveli Avenue and the nearby Christmas villages and markets are among Tbilisi’s other festive highlights.

The icy weather adds to the occasion somewhat, as do the light displays all over town”, - writes CNN.