The annual autumn festival "Tbilisoba" was held the first time on October 28, 1979. Since then, the celebration of the city day - "Tbilisoba" has become a tradition. This festival involves people throughout all Georgia. The awarding by the title of the Honorable Citizen of Tbilisi has also become a tradition. Since 1979, by this honorary title were awarded more than 200 famous citizens of Tbilisi.

"On the celebration of “Tbilisoba” we should particularly remember our past, those of our forefathers who founded this city, built and defended it. First of all, Vakhtang Gorgasali, who by God's blessing founded the city on this place, which later became the capital of all of Georgia; David the Builder, who in 1122 freed the city of Tbilisi from the yoke of years of the Arab conquerors. The history of the city of Tbilisi is also full of suffering as the history of the Georgian people. Many times it was conquered and destroyed, but by God's grace, it always was restored and roused from the ashes even stronger and more beautiful. On a “Tbilisoba” celebration it’s impossible not to think of those hundred thousand Georgians who were tortured by Jalaleddin for their faith. We must remember that this is not only the past but our present, because those hundred thousand tortured Georgians even now protect the Tbilisi and the whole Georgia. This is the celestial force that prays to God for our nation. Remembering our ancestors, we must also think about our future, to look into our hearts - what we do today for Georgia and Tbilisi".

His Holiness and Beatitude, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Ilia II

The Celebration of “Tbilisoba”, October 28, 1988 year.