What’s On in Malta & Gozo – October Edition

This year September is bringing the first autumn rain showers, refreshing the islands after the long summer and welcoming October with cooler evenings and clear skies. The seasonal shift makes it one of the best times to enjoy Malta and Gozo: the sea is still warm, while the cultural calendar comes alive with festivals, concerts, and celebrations.

October is a month of variety: open-air cultural nights in Valletta, candlelit streets in Birgu, international yacht races, sweet chocolate festivals, world-class opera in Gozo, and the vibrant energy of village festas. Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, it’s the perfect balance of tradition, culture, and seasonal fun.

Here’s your guide to the top events happening across Malta and Gozo in October 2025.

✦ Spotlight Events: Don’t Miss These

Notte Bianca – Valletta (4 October 2025)

Notte Bianca is free to attend and open to everyone. No tickets are required — visitors simply join the flow of activity across Valletta’s streets and squares. Most museums and heritage sites open their doors late into the night, often waiving entry fees for the occasion. Performances take place outdoors and indoors, with no reservation needed unless specified by certain venues. Families, couples, and groups of friends can all enjoy the lively atmosphere, which continues well past midnight.

Rolex Middle Sea Race – Valletta / Grand Harbour (10–26 October 2025)

The Rolex Middle Sea Race is a competitive offshore yacht race, open only to registered crews and vessels that meet strict international sailing standards. Participation requires advance entry and compliance with race regulations, so this is not an event for casual sailors. However, it is designed to be enjoyed by the public as a spectator event. The best vantage points are around the Grand Harbour in Valletta and Birgu, where thousands gather to watch the dramatic start. Spectators do not need tickets – access to waterfront areas is free, though some hotels and restaurants may offer special viewing packages.

Birgufest – Birgu (10–11 October 2025)

Birgufest is primarily a free street festival, although certain exhibitions or guided tours within heritage buildings may carry a small entry fee. The candlelit streets and open-air performances are open to all. Visitors can stroll through Birgu’s winding alleys, watch live music, enjoy art exhibitions, and sample food stalls without formal registration. For those interested in more structured experiences, local cultural organisations often run ticketed tours of museums and historic houses during the festival.

Malta Classic – Mdina & Surroundings (23–26 October 2025)

Mdina hosts the Malta Classic, a celebration of vintage cars and motorsport heritage. Over four days, classic and historic vehicles take part in parades, hill climbs, and timed races across scenic routes. Enthusiasts from around the world showcase their restored vehicles, bringing elegance and nostalgia to Malta’s narrow streets and open roads. The Silent City itself provides a dramatic backdrop, with its medieval walls and timeless charm. Whether you’re a car lover or simply curious, the Malta Classic is a spectacle that combines style, history, and adrenaline.

Opera is Gozo 2025 – Victoria, Gozo (3-10 October 2025)

Opera is Gozo returns in October 2025 with a rich festival programme that showcases the island’s deep love for classical music and performance. The two main events of the season are the grand productions at Gozo’s opera houses: La Forza del Destino at Aurora Theatre und Tosca at Astra Theatre. These productions bring world-class artistry to the island, combining powerful music, elaborate staging, and the unique atmosphere of Gozo’s intimate theatres. Tickets are required and should be booked in advance, as performances often sell out quickly. They can be purchased directly from the Teatru Aurora und Teatru Astra.

Exact dates will be announced soon on the theatres’ official websites.

Furthermore, Opera is Gozo offers a rich festival programme across Gozo’s cultural venues. The season opens on 3 October mit The Ewfonija Grand Operatic Concert at Villa Fiorita, Żebbuġ, followed by a Musical-Literary Event in San Lawrenz (4 Oct) and Echoes of St Francis in Għajnsielem (5 Oct). From 6 to 9 October, attendees can explore the Philatelic Opera & Classical Exhibition at Il-Ħaġar Gozo Museum in Victoria, open daily from 09:00 to 17:00. On 10 October, two special performances take place: Showcasing Tomorrow’s Performers at Teatru Astra (20:00–21:30) and Symphony of Lights (20:00–22:00) in Santa Luċija Square.

Food and Family Markets

October is also a month for food lovers and families. Beyond the large cultural events, Malta and Gozo host lively community markets, themed festivals, and family-friendly gatherings. These events offer the perfect opportunity to taste local produce, discover artisan crafts, and enjoy seasonal treats. Whether you’re strolling through a village market or indulging in a dedicated festival, these activities provide a more relaxed way to experience island life.

Malta Artisan Markets – St Julian’s & Senglea

Malta Artisan Markets continue through autumn with vibrant gatherings of stallholders offering crafts, jewellery, homeware, and artisan foods. On 26 October 2025, the Hyatt Regency in St Julian’s will host a market from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, showcasing handmade products and gourmet items. Earlier in the month, markets are also expected to feature at the Senglea Maritime Festival (24–25 October), running from late morning into the evening. These markets are ideal for picking up unique souvenirs and enjoying the creativity of Malta’s artisan scene.

Ħamrun Chocolate Festival – Ħamrun (18 October 2025)

The Ħamrun Chocolate Festival is back on 18 October 2025, von 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm along St Joseph High Street. Now in its 14th edition, the festival draws thousands of visitors each year with its chocolate sculptures, creative desserts, live demonstrations, and workshops. Expect live music, performances, and a lively evening atmosphere that transforms Ħamrun into Malta’s sweetest destination for one night only.

For expats and visitors alike, this is the perfect time to explore, connect with local traditions, and see the islands in their autumn colours. From candlelit alleys in Birgu to the grand spectacle of the Rolex Middle Sea Race, the sweet indulgence of Ħamrun’s Chocolate Festival, and the unforgettable opera season in Gozo, October is about immersing yourself in Malta’s culture at its most authentic.

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