On October 14, Georgia celebrates Svetitskhovloba, a national holiday dedicated to the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (the Living Pillar Cathedral) located in Georgia’s historical town of Mtskheta. The festival is also referred to as Mtskhetoba (celebrating the day of Mtskheta). In connection with this date, a festive service will be held in all functioning churches of Georgia. On this day, the Georgian Orthodox Church also celebrates the day of King Mirian and Queen Nana, who reigned in the 4th century. They were the first monarchs in the country, who converted to Christianity. This date is also connected with Saint Abiathar and Sidonia - a legendary Jewish priest of Mtskheta and his daughter.

October 14 is an official holiday.

Svetitskhovloba is celebrated twice a year, on October 14 and July 13. On October 14, the church commemorates the holy robe of Jesus Christ, and on July 13 - all the apostles of Christ.