St. Barbara's day in Georgia

On 17th  December  St. Barbara's day is celebrated in Georgia. In my country the martyr is considered to be a patron for children and the sick. One important ritual is associated with this day-it's Mekvleoba-Early in the morning, Mekvle ( the person who is entering at home firstly on this day) visits the family. This person is either a  friend, relative or a member of this family. Mekvle brings food, sweets, and wishes family members happiness. This holiday is also connected with eating fish, Lobiani (Bean bread)

pumpkin.

It's interesting that when Georgians were pagans, they celebrated the holiday, also in December, the day was related to sun worship cult and the name of the sun-goddess was Barbale.