Malta is a culturally rich island where lots of interesting events and festivals in Malta and Gozo take place throughout the year, perfect for both locals and tourists to enjoy. These activities celebrate Maltese history, traditions, music, and gastronomy, offering incredible and memorable experiences.
Here’s a list of some of the best events and festivals in Malta and Gozo, organized by date, to help you plan your visit.
Alarme! (February-November)
Held at Valletta’s historic Fort St Elmo, Alarme! is a very interesting re-enactment of the day in 1798 when Napoleon’s revolutionary fleet was sighted on the Mediterranean Sea. This historical event happens on the third Sunday of each month at 11 am (lasts 1 hour) and brings to life the subsequent Maltese rebellion against the French occupation. It’s a fantastic and fun way to learn more about Malta’s history, and tickets are priced at €5.
Carnival in Malta and Gozo (February)
The Carnival in Malta is a ‘colourful’ celebration that dates back five centuries, introduced by the Order of St John. Originally celebrated in Birgu and Valletta with knightly tournaments, today’s Carnival festivities are popular across Malta, particularly in Valletta, Floriana, and Nadur (Gozo). The week before Ash Wednesday is marked by masked balls, masquerade competitions, parades with allegorical floats, wild late-night parties, and marching bands, ending in a grand fireworks display in Floriana. In Gozo, the Carnival is known for its unique, humorous, and sometimes macabre twist, making it a must-see event.
The Mediterranean Food Festival (March)
This is a call for all food lovers out there! Organized by the Malta Tourism Authority, the Mediterranean Food Festival is a culinary celebration where local and international chefs showcase the best of Mediterranean cuisine. This four-day festival is a gastronomic paradise, allowing visitors to savour different dishes and offer a delightful addition to their itinerary.
Freedom Day (March 31)
Freedom Day is a significant Maltese holiday commemorating the departure of the last British troops and the Royal Navy from Malta in 1979. Events take place at the War Memorial in Floriana, and traditional regatta boat races are held in the Grand Harbour of Valletta.
Holy Week (usually in April)
Holy Week is a deeply significant event in Malta, where the island’s devout Christian heritage is reflected best. Starting on the Friday preceding Good Friday, the streets of many towns and villages come alive with processions featuring life-size statues of biblical scenes. The Good Friday processions are solemn, while Easter Sunday processions are joyous, celebrating the resurrection of Christ with the statue of the Risen Christ carried through the streets accompanied by smiling parishioners and marching bands.
Malta International Fireworks Festival (late April)
The Malta International Fireworks Festival is a spectacular event celebrated every year, and a very colourful live show. With a tradition of fireworks dating back to the Order of the Knights of St John, this festival is a visual extravaganza set against the backdrop of Malta’s beautiful harbours. The grand finale in Valletta’s Grand Harbour is particularly breathtaking, with pyrotechnic displays synchronized to music.
Village Festas (May-September)
Malta’s summer is marked by over 75 local village feasts, originally religious festivities honouring the town’s patron saint. These festas feature fireworks, religious processions, and brass band music, for a lively and festive atmosphere. These events are popular among tourists who want to learn more about authentic Maltese culture, with local tour operators organising trips to some of the most popular fiestas.
Malta International Jazz Festival (July)
Since 1990, the Malta International Jazz Festival has been a highlight of the island’s cultural calendar. This three-day event features top jazz musicians from around the world, who perform in the setting of Ta’ Liesse in Valletta’s Grand Harbour. Even if you are not a jazz aficionado, the combination of world-class music and stunning views makes this festival a must-visit.
The Farsons Great Beer Festival (late July)
The Farsons Great Beer Festival, sponsored by Malta’s renowned Farsons brewery, is the largest and most diverse free outdoor festival in Malta. Held in Ta’ Qali Park, the festival features around 40 live bands, kids’ Fantasyland, and a variety of Maltese food and drink. This family-friendly event starts at 8 pm daily, with free entry and parking.
Malta’s Delicata Wine Festival (early August)
Malta’s Delicata Wine Festival, first held in 2002, celebrates the beginning of the wine harvest. Set in the beautiful Upper Barrakka Gardens overlooking Valletta’s Grand Harbour, visitors can sample a wide range of quality wines from Malta and Gozo. For a fee of around €10, visitors receive a souvenir wine glass and can taste as many wines as they like. The festival also features live performances and the annual wine regatta, where grapes are transported from the waterfront to the grape crushers in the gardens.
Ceremony of Our Lady of Victories (September)
This event marks significant historical victories, including the lifting of the 1565 siege against the Turks, the capitulation of the French in 1800, and the end of the Axis siege in 1943. Valletta’s Grand Harbour is the site of a traditional regatta featuring colourful boats, a perfect addition to the festive atmosphere.
Independence Day (September 21)
Independence Day marks Malta’s independence from the UK in 1964. Celebrated with various events across the island, this national holiday features parades, concerts, and cultural activities, reflecting Malta’s pride in its sovereignty.
Malta International Airshow (late September)
Since its inception in 1993, the Malta International Airshow has been a major attraction, for those interested in civil and military aircraft. Held at Luqa Airfield, the event features aircraft displays, pilot meet-and-greets, and aerial performances, including parachute teams and historic planes. The legendary Spitfire fly-past is a highlight, making this a must-see event for aviation enthusiasts.
Notte Bianca (October)
Notte Bianca is a free, all-night cultural event held in Valletta, where public spaces, museums, galleries, and important buildings remain open until the early hours. The streets buzz with music, art, and food stalls, create a festive and lively atmosphere. This open city concept allows visitors to experience Malta’s rich history and arts scene in a unique and engaging way.
BirguFest (October)
BirguFest celebrates the historical and architectural beauty of Citta Vittoriosa (Birgu). The festival features guided tours, re-enactments, parades, concerts, exhibitions, and food stalls. The highlight is Birgu by Candlelight, where thousands of candles illuminate the city, creating a magical and romantic ambience. This event has become one of Malta’s most popular cultural festivals, attracting locals and tourists alike.
Festival Mediterranea (late October-November)
Festival Mediterranea transforms the island of Gozo into a cultural and artistic hub. The event features music concerts, historical tours, field trips, food and drink events, and art exhibitions. It’s a celebration of Gozo’s rich cultural heritage, and it comes with lots of activities visitors can do.
Republic Day (December 13)
Republic Day commemorates the day in 1974 when Malta became a republic within the Commonwealth. The festivities include street celebrations and horse races in Marsa, as a reflection of Malta’s national pride and historical significance.
In Guardia Parades (almost all year round)
In Guardia, Parades are colourful re-enactments that demonstrate how Fort St Elmo and its troops were inspected by the Grand Bailiff of the Order of the Knights of St John. Organized by the Malta Tourism Authority, these events feature about 70 actors in period costumes, and the parades are held on Sundays, weather permitting, and offer an engaging glimpse into Malta’s past.
Which Event Is Your Favourite?
Events and Festivals in Malta and Gozo offer a unique kind of event for every preference, all year round. To make sure you don’t miss out on any of the exciting experiences mentioned in this article, keep an eye on the event schedule as you plan your trip. This will help you enjoy what Malta has to offer to the best of your ability.
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Related post:
Christmas Lights and Markets in Malta and Gozo: Experience the Joy of Festive Season
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