On 18 March, 2018, the Surb Prkich (the Holy Savior) Church in Batumi and surrounding area were crowded. The Armenians of Batumi gathered in the church where Rev. Father Ararat Gumbalyan, the Pastor of the Armenians of Adjara, Guria, Imereti and Batumi was celebrating the Divine Liturgy. The members of the “Church-loving Women's Association” under the leadership of Sona Hovhannisyan, the director of Alexander Mantashyants Educational Cultural and Youth Center of the Armenian Diocese in Georgia were preparing to the Gata Festival in the courtyard of the church.. The Armenians of Batumi came to take part to the Gata Festival with various types of gatas (Armenian pastry), following the tradition of the popularization of the church feasts through celebrating with samples of the national cuisine. It became a tradition thanks to Armenian Diocese in Georgia.

In the tables decorated whit the Armenian national style, the different gatas: sweet and salty, round and with slices, with zigzag and straight cut, with the sweet stuffing and nuts were placed in the baskets. All gatas were for Lent.

At the end of the Divine Liturgy, Rev. Father Ararat Gumbalyan blessed Armenian gatas, director of the Center welcomed attendees, reminding that the Gata Festival also has a mystery to find out who made the most delicious and most beautiful gatas, which would be decided by the jury of the competition.

Staying true to the folk tradition, 15 silver crosses were hidden in the gatas which would be received by those who had taste the gatas. It is believed that these crosses will bring special success to its owners.

Then the tasting of the Armenian national gata began with tea and coffee. It was difficult for the competition jury to give the advantage to one gata, because all gatas were very tasty, beautiful and made wholeheartedly and with love.

Artistic groups of the Alexander Mantashyants Center created joyful mood for the attendees with their amazing songs and dances and were highly appreciated. The day became unforgettable and festive for the Armenians of Batumi.