Table of Contents
Introduction
The Mediterranean island of Malta is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditions. Throughout the year, Maltese towns and villages celebrate various festivals and events that showcase the island’s vibrant spirit. From religious feasts to lively summer music festivals, carnival parades to Christmas festivities, there are many ways to experience Malta’s festive atmosphere.
The Maltese are passionate about their cultural celebrations, with each town having its own patron saint and festa. The festive spirit brings families and communities together to enjoy good food, music, fireworks and processions. For visitors, these festivals offer an authentic insight into Malta’s cultural identity and the traditions of its people.
Religious Festivals
Several public holidays in Malta are linked to religious celebrations and events. As a predominantly Catholic country, many feasts revolve around saints and dates significant to the Church.
Feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck
On February 10th, the Feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck commemorates the arrival of Christianity to the islands. The apostle Paul was said to have been shipwrecked on Malta in 60 AD. The festivities take place in Valletta and the town of Munxar, where Paul supposedly came ashore.
Good Friday Processions
On Good Friday, elaborate processions depicting Jesus Christ’s crucifixion are held in villages across Malta. Hooded penitents carry decorated wooden statues through the streets, accompanied by brass bands. Thousands of locals and visitors attend the sombre parades.
Feast of St Mary
Celebrated twice yearly on February 2nd and September 8th, the Feast of St Mary honours the patron saint of Malta. The National Shrine of Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu on the island of Gozo is the main site for the celebrations.
Summer Festivals
The hot summer months bring some of Malta’s liveliest entertainment and music festivals, attracting thousands of revellers each year.
Isle of MTV Music Festival
Hosted annually in June, the Isle of MTV Malta Music Week is the biggest summer music festival. International pop stars like Lady Gaga, Snoop Dogg and David Guetta have headlined the free open-air concert in past years.
Malta Jazz Festival
Each July, the charming fishing village of Ta’ Liesse transforms into a jazz hotspot. Local and foreign musicians perform free jazz, blues and funk shows in the picturesque setting for a week.
Għanafest – Folk Singing Festival
This three-day event in June celebrates Maltese folk music known as għana. Singers perform traditional ballads while strumming guitars called l-għanna in competitions held around Malta.
Autumn Celebrations
Malta’s mild autumn hosts cultural festivals as well as events for foodies and sailing enthusiasts.
Birgufest – Medieval Festival
The historic Three Cities relive their medieval past through reenactments, music and food during Birgufest each October. Fort St Angelo in Birgu provides an atmospheric backdrop for the festivities.
Malta International Airshow
Aerial displays by precision flying teams like the Red Arrows make the biennial airshow a popular September event. Held at the Malta International Airport, it showcases aerobatic performances and military aircraft.
Wine Festival
Malta’s flourishing wine industry is celebrated at this annual festival in Valletta. Local wineries offer tastings and sell their products. The event includes live music, food stalls and chef demonstrations.
Rolex Middle Sea Race
Sailing boats race around Sicily and Malta in late October, starting and ending in Grand Harbour. Spectators can watch the start and finish from the Valletta waterfront.
Carnival
One of the island’s most colourful and exuberant festivals takes place in February, leading up to Lent. The Carnival celebrations feature flamboyant costumes, vibrant parades and spectacular fireworks.
Origins and Traditions
Introduced by the Knights of St John in 1535, Carnival has become integral to Maltese culture. Grotesque masks and costumes symbolise the victory of good over evil.
Parades and Costumes
Carnival’s highlight is the parade of outrageously dressed floats and troupes boasting intricate costumes. Many dress up in humourous exaggerated outfits, wearing masks and face paint.
Grand Harbour Fireworks
Carnival culminates in a dazzling fireworks display over the Grand Harbour in Valletta. Thousands flock to the capital’s waterfront for the 20-minute long pyrotechnic show on the final days.
Christmas and New Year
The festive season sees Maltese families following beloved traditions and sharing delicious holiday foods.
Christmas Traditions
Nativity cribs or presepju are central to Malta’s Christmas. Crib building competitions are held and many households display elaborate cribs with figurines. Models of Bethlehem’s Nativity scene adorn churches and streets.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
New Year’s Eve brings fireworks and parties across Malta. Locals and tourists pack outdoor venues in Valletta where stage shows and live music continue into the early hours. The midnight fireworks display lights up Grand Harbour.
Festa – Each Town’s Patron Saint
Each Maltese town celebrates the Feast of its patron saint’s day annually. These religious festas represent community pride and identity.
Origins and Significance
Dating back to the 16th century, these feast days have great cultural and spiritual importance. They unite local parishes to venerate their patron saint.
Processions and Decorations
Festa highlights are the religious procession and lavish church decorations. Streets are elaborately decorated as locals carry statues of saints and bands play hymns.
Fireworks and Food
Vibrant fireworks displays, concerts, fairs and tasty Maltese food stalls bring the community together. Local specialties like pastizzi and kronfol are served.
Mnarja – Midsummer Festival
Mnarja is a traditional summer festival celebrated on June 29th in Gozo. It incorporates the feast of Saints Peter and Paul.
Bonfires and Horse Races
Bonfires are lit on Gozo’s coast on the eve of Mnarja. Horse races and traditional horseback games are held in Gozitan villages on June 29th.
Traditional Food and Drink
Gozitan food and wine are enjoyed during Mnarja. Fenek stew made with rabbit is a typical dish served. There are craft displays and folk music and dance.
Conclusion
Malta clearly lives and breathes the festive spirit all year round. The island’s diverse cultural calendar celebrates faith, history, music, food and community. By experiencing Malta’s many festivals, visitors can truly appreciate the richness of traditions, pride and identity nurtured by the Maltese people.
The colourful events, from religious processions to lively summer concerts, offer memorable local experiences. They provide the perfect opportunity to embrace the island’s exuberant and hospitable culture.
FAQs
FAQ 1: What is special about Malta’s Christmas traditions?
Malta has beautiful and unique Christmas traditions, most notably the building of detailed nativity cribs called presepju. Crib building competitions are held and cribs are displayed in homes, churches and streets during the festive season.
FAQ 2: When is the best time of year to experience festivals in Malta?
Malta has festivals all year round, but the summer from June to August is an excellent time to catch major festivals like Isle of MTV Malta Music Week, Malta Jazz Festival and Għanafest. Carnival is also a vibrant celebration in February.
FAQ 3: What is a Maltese festa?
A Maltese festa celebrates the feast day of each town’s patron saint. It involves religious processions, elaborately decorated streets, fireworks and community meals. Festas represent local identity and bring people together.
FAQ 4: What food and drink are associated with Maltese festivals?
Signature Maltese food like pastizzi pastries, fenek rabbit stew and kusksu are commonly served at festive events. Local wines and craft beer flows during summer music festivals. Traditional drinks include Cisk and Kinnie.
FAQ 5: How can visitors experience and respect Maltese festival traditions?
Visitors should research festivals and customs before attending to understand their origins and importance. Locals are very welcoming if you respectfully observe their traditions. Wearing festa colours shows your support.