Last night saw Georgia host their Eurovision party and what a party it was. As always Georgia put on an incredibly impressive event. Despite issues getting into the party (the venue security were only accepting people with official invitations, press accreditation no longer seems to give you access to parties) it was a thoroughly enjoyable evening with unparalleled Georgian hospitality.

This wasn’t just an ordinary party – this was a Georgian party (which are now legendary in their own right). Delegates were entertained with Georgian wine, food, music and dancing. Unlike the Turkish party the previous night where many acts performed, this was a Georgian event on Georgian terms. Previous Georgian Eurovision acts took to the stage, Sopho Khalvashi from 2007 and 2010’s Sofia Nizharadze as well as Eldrine, the entrants for 2011 who performed a full set. Their withdrawn entry from 2009, Stephanie and 3G were not in attendance however. Along with dancing children of Georgian origin who put on a vibrant stage show, the Head of Delegation, Georgian Jazz singer Maia Baratashvili also took to the stage to perform. The large video screen above the stage played a tourist video showing Georgia’s beauty spots throughout the evening. It was clear that this was an attempt by Georgia to make their mark.

In their press conference that afternoon the significance of Eurovision for Georgia was emphasised. Ramaz Bluashvili, spokesperson for the delegation, stated that Eurovision is a serious event for the country in terms of providing international exposure and promoting the nation particularly as it seeks increased European integration. For Georgia Eurovision is therefore not just a song contest, it is an important symbol and expression of “Europeaness”.

The Georgian Eurovision performance also features elements of national culture in the costumes and the on-screen images reflect Georgia’s religious and ancient roots, something which the delegation deemed to be appropriate and were satisfied with.

The Georgian party was a serious event – it can be seen as a display of Georgian culture and with the global media presence it served as an effective promotional tool for presenting Georgia as a European nation with much to offer the world. The party was big but managed to retain an intimate atmosphere, it succeed where others have failed in that it was generous without being classless. Bravo Georgia and thank you for the music!