Discover cultural and entertainment events in Malta

Malta, an attractive destination for tourists and locals alike, is known for its diverse array of festivals and events throughout the year This island nation serves as a cultural melting pot, evident through its cultural events, entertainment, exhibitions, Carnival celebrations, summer festivals, and internationally acclaimed art and music festivals

From religious festivals to renowned music festivals, traditional village feasts, national holidays, and culinary and wine festivals, Malta caters to every taste and preference When you visit Malta, you not only get to enjoy its stunning beaches and explore its rich history, but also immerse yourself in the lively festival atmosphere

Alarme (February – November)

The historic reenactment took place at Fort St Elmo, Valletta, reenacting the day Napoleon’s revolutionary fleet appeared in the Mediterranean Sea in 1798, a key event that led to the Maltese revolt against French colonialism two years later.

Carnival in Malta and Gozo (February or March)

The Carnival in Malta is a traditional event that dates back five centuries, celebrated throughout towns and villages, especially in Valletta, Floriana and Nadur (Gozo). The festival brings a lively atmosphere with masquerade dances, costume contests, all-night parties, marching bands, and fabled car parades.

Mediterranean Food Festival (March)

Malta’s largest food and beverage event, bringing together local and international chefs, offers unique dishes and quintessential flavours of Mediterranean cuisine.

Freedom Day (March 31)

Freedom Day is an important holiday in Malta, marking the withdrawal of British troops from Malta in 1979. On this day, commemorative events are held at the War Memorial in Floriana, while colorful traditional regatta boat races take place at Valletta’s Grand Harbour, creating a vibrant festive atmosphere across the country.

Holy Week (usually in April)

Holy Week (usually in April)With a history tied to Catholicism, Maltese people are very devout and consider Holy Week to be one of the most important events of the year, with solemn processions and religious ceremonies taking place throughout the towns and villages. The highlight of Holy Week is the procession of statues of Our Lady of Sorrow and the Resurrected Christ, attracting a large number of people to participate and show their respect.

Malta International Fireworks Festival (end of April)

The Malta International Fireworks Festival is an event that celebrates Malta’s long tradition of fireworks dating back to the time of the Knights of St John. The festival brings together fireworks producers from Malta and internationally, performing lively performances and music over two days at Valletta’s Grand Harbour. This event attracts a large number of spectators, especially the Barriera Wharf area, which has the most ideal view to admire the entire festival.

Village Festas (May – September)

Summer in Malta is a time of a series of traditional village festivals, honoring the patron saints of each locality. These festivals are imbued with Maltese cultural identity with dazzling fireworks, solemn religious and cultural traditions, and vibrant brass music parades. Visitors can take special tours to experience these unique village festivals.

Malta International Jazz Festival (July)

The international music event has been held annually since 1990, attracting big names in the world jazz industry. The festival takes place under Malta’s beautiful night sky at the historic site of Ta’Liesse, on the shores of Valletta’s Great Harbour, offering a great musical atmosphere and impressive views.

The Farsons Great Beer Festival (end of July)

The largest and most diverse outdoor festival in Malta, sponsored by the Farsons beer brand. The festival offers an entertaining space for the whole family with about 40 live bands performing, a Fantasyland amusement park for children and a lot of local food and drinks

Malta’s Delicata Wine Festival (early August)

Celebrating the start of the wine harvest, this festival takes place at the Upper Barrakka Gardens, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy a variety of quality wines from Malta and Gozo. You can try as many wines as you want and enjoy the lively festive atmosphere with music, food, and the annual boat race.

In addition, in Malta there is also the Delicata wine festival in Nadur, Gozo (early September). The same event was held in Nadur, Gozo to celebrate the end of the grape harvest.

Ceremony of Our Lady of Victories (September)

The festival celebrates three important events in Maltese history: the lifting of the siege against the Turks in 1565, the surrender of the French in 1800 and the end of the siege by the Axis powers in 1943. On the same day, a colorful traditional boat race is held at Valletta’s Grand Harbour.

Independence Day (21/9)

Celebrating Malta’s independence from the United Kingdom in 1964, this holiday is celebrated with many events taking place in different locations across the island nation.

Malta International Air Show (end of September)

The annual event attracts a large number of aviation lovers, taking place at Luqa Airport. Visitors have the opportunity to admire a wide range of civil and military aircraft, from classic aircraft to modern aircraft, as well as impressive aerial acrobatic performances.

Notte Bianca (White Night)

A special cultural event takes place in Valletta, transforming the capital of Malta into a colorful open space throughout the night. Historical sites, art galleries, shops, and restaurants are open to visitors, along with lively music, theater, cinema, and dance activities. Notte Bianca is a great opportunity to explore the cultural and historical beauty of Valletta under the night lights.

BirguFest (October)

The largest and most impressive cultural festival in Malta, celebrating the history and stunning architecture of Citta Vittoriosa (Birgu). The festival lasts for 3 days with a variety of activities such as city tours, historical reenactments, parades, concerts, exhibitions, and food stalls. The highlight of BirguFest is Saturday night, when the whole city is lit up by thousands of candles, creating a romantic and fanciful scene.

Mediterranean Festival (late October – November)

A unique cultural event takes place on the island of Gozo, celebrating the island’s cultural and artistic life. The festival offers a variety of activities such as concerts, art exhibitions, food events, and tours of historical sites.

Republic Day (December 13)

Celebrate the day Malta became a Commonwealth republic in 1974. The festival is held in the streets with many entertainment activities and traditional horse racing in Marsa.

In Guardia Parades (takes place almost all year round)

In the Guardia Parades are colourful events in which actors show tourists in Malta the inspection of Fort St Elmo and its army is actually done by the Grand Bailiff of the Order of the Knights of St John. Organised by the Malta Tourism Authority, In Guardia Parades are performed by around 70 actors dressed in ceremonial uniforms from that point in Maltese history, showcasing the military prowess of the Maltese people.

The event is held on Sundays in Fort St Elmo, weather permitting. The program starts at 11 a.m. and lasts about 40 minutes. Visitors who buy tickets at the gate: adults €5, children aged 6-12 and students €3.