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Events in Malta are held regularly, ranging from local culture to international music events and other types of celebrations.
Here you’ll find some of my favourite events for 2024 that you’ll enjoy. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, there are plenty of choices regarding what to do in Malta.
Malta has a rich history and a heavy involvement with the arts scene, as well as a fun and jovial personality. All sorts of events happen on a daily basis, and being a relatively small country, all events are easy to get to and enjoy.
When? On most Sundays, at 11 am. Duration: 45 minutes.
Where? Fort St. Elmo (Valletta)
Why visit? Re-enactments dating back to the reign of the Knights of Malta, within one of the many fortifications they built during their rule over Malta.
Type: Historical re-enactment
Cost: €10 for adults, €5 for children
Held regularly on Sundays, the In Guardia is a spectacle of re-enactments with drills, sword fighting and artillery dating back to the rule of the Knights. This is a permanent fixture, played out in traditional uniforms amongst a life-like military drill demonstration and set within one of the bigger forts from the same era: Fort St. Elmo. It’s a lively experience and really adds another dimension to the already impressive fort, giving you a vivid impression of an important historical period in Malta.
This event is not held during the warmer months (June, July, August and September) because of the scorching heat and the heavy clothing and armour required for these re-enactments.
When? Every last Friday of the month, at 10:30 am
Where? From Republic street into St. George’s (Palace) Square, Valletta, Malta
Why visit? It’s quite a sight to behold, far more elaborate than most other changing of the guard processions, infused with history.
Type: Historical
Cost: Free
The Changing of the Guard ceremony dates back to the 17th Century. Back in the 70s, the event was suspended due to budget cuts, but it has recently been brought back as part of a reinvigoration campaign. Visitors can watch the guards change, as they did back in the days of the Grandmaster and his personal guards, and then enjoy the military band in a musical procession.
When? The site is open daily (except for major public holidays) between 10 am and 4.30 pm.
Where? Battery Street, Valletta, Malta. (Entrance in the middle of the Upper Barrakka Gardens.)
Why visit? A historical location and re-enactment that leaves an impression. Highly recommended if you plan on spending a few hours in Malta’s capital.
Type: Historical
Cost: Adults: €3 (including guided tour), Children: €1
The Saluting Battery is an important piece of Malta’s history, and everyday visitors get the chance to see it in action. At 12 pm and 4 pm sharp, the heavy guns are fired, marking the passage of time. Located at one of the highest points in Malta, the Saluting Battery also boasts magnificent views across the Grand Harbour and beyond.
When? Throughout the year, mostly in summer. 2024 Calendar here.
Where? All over Malta and Gozo
Why visit? One of the most iconic cultural events in Malta and something to experience.
Cost: Free
Type: Cultural
Throughout the year (and more popularly during peak season), Malta and Gozo offer an array of colour and cheeriness as every weekend, there is a traditional village feast somewhere on the islands.
Each village’s patron saint is celebrated, and although originally a religious celebration, it’s the event of the year for the local villagers, filled with band music during the day and fireworks, drink and food in the evenings.
When? 11-28 January 2024
Where? Various locations in Malta, from theatres to stunning palaces and churches.
Why visit? 31 Concerts across 17 beautiful venues
Type: Music
The Valletta Baroque Festival brings together an impressive selection of local and international artists to perform classical music from Monteverdi to Bach and beyond. Set within a variety of beautiful venues to match the performance, it’s a popular cultural event on the calendar.
For the full programme, tickets and Terms and Conditions, please visit the organiser’s website.
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When? 10th of February (public holiday)
Where? Valletta, Malta
Why visit? Great example of a religious celebration, very much part of the nation’s heritage.
Type: Religious
Cost: Free
Marking the shipwrecked arrival of St Paul in Malta in 60 AD, this February festival is a one-day extravaganza boasting marches and costumed parades, as well as colourful confetti throwing throughout the streets and a spectacular firework display. A statue of St Paul himself is carefully carried through the streets in celebration, and hundreds of doves are released into the blue, Maltese sky – a very moving, atmospheric display.
When? February – This year: 09th – 17th February 2024
Where? Valletta for the main celebrations, Nadur (Gozo) for “anything goes” celebrations
Why visit? The floats and performances provide some pretty unique entertainment.
Type: Cultural
Cost: Free
Being a traditionally Catholic country, Carnival in Malta is a big annual event. Perhaps not at the level of how it’s celebrated in Brazil, but it’s a great colourful extravaganza that marks the start of Lent with a bang nevertheless.
Local float builders compete with each other in preparation for the big celebrations in Valletta with all sorts of large floats, with all sorts of themes. The parade itself is one big party with music and performances, and the local clubbing scene continues the party in the evening.
If you’re looking for something completely nuts, you could take the ferry to Gozo and join the celebrations in the village of Nadur. That village experiences a true invasion of youths dressed up in all sorts of costumes and drinking to the occasion. It’s not a last-minute spontaneous thing to do. The ferry has limited capacity, as do local hotels and hostels.
When? Late March/Early April. This year: Fri 22nd March – Sat 30th March 2024. Easter Sunday: 31st March 2024.
Where? All over Malta and Gozo
Why visit? The most important week of the year for the Catholic Church is celebrated in a unique way in Malta.
Cost: Free
Easter is a huge celebration in Malta and the festivities last for a week, starting on the Friday before Good Friday with a procession featuring the statue of Our Lady of Sorrows through the streets of Valletta.
On Maundy Thursday (the day before Good Friday) the ‘seven visits’ take place, where celebrators visit seven churches of their choice in the evening, paying their respect to the Altars of Repose. Most churches open their doors for the bigger part of the evening.
Sombre but impressive processions fill the streets on Good Friday, carrying a selection of statues that represent different parts of the Passion of the Christ. On Easter Sunday, the festivities are considerably more positive as the statue of the Risen Christ is taken back to the church, and revellers enjoy hearty meals with their families.
TIP: To attend a Good Friday procession, I’d recommend going to Naxxar, Senglea, Zebbug or Mosta. Processions are usually held at 3 pm, and I highly recommend being there early to avoid difficulty finding a spot to park or getting stuck on a bus in traffic.
When? April – This year: TBA
Where? Mġarr, Malta
Why visit? Good excuse to visit one of the nicer villages on the island
Type: Food
Cost: Free (well, except for the strawberries themselves, of course)
Who doesn’t love strawberries? The plump, juicy red fruits are the showstoppers at the annual Festa Frawli in the old agricultural village of Mġarr. Tucked in between rolling green hills, it’s the perfect place for a festival dedicated to strawberries, grown in the fields surrounding the village known for its agricultural produce.
Throughout the day, visitors can browse through the buffet of strawberries, as well as fruit-based desserts, snacks, and drinks – look out for the novelty dishes, too! There are also numerous craft stands selling local works and a series of folk bands performing during the event.
TIP: It’s become a popular event in recent years, which means two things: Limited parking and strawberries selling out quickly. Attend early – the event usually starts at 9:30 am – to avoid traffic, and parking issues and for a relatively pain-free return trip, beating the crowds.
When? Late April/Early May – This year: TBA
Where? Various locations – TBA
Why visit? Spectacular fireworks show with an impressive backdrop of distinct locations across Malta and Gozo at night. What’s not to like?
Type: Cultural
Cost: Free
The International Fireworks Festival features spectacular shows by local firework factories, as well as professional pyrotechnic companies from further afield. On the final day of the event, there is a Grand Finale to end all grand finales at Barriera Wharf in Valletta and the harbourside and bastions on that side of the city will be lined with spectators and enthusiasts photographers to witness the action.
Tips:
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When? 3rd – 5th May 2024
Where? Zion, Marsascala
Why visit? Great artists, excellent music.
Type: Alternative Music Festival
Cost: Early Bird tickets are currently being sold at €35
Spread over 3 days, the jam-packed Rock the South festival invites alternative music fans to be part of a celebration of the best tunes and beats at the Zion Reggae Bar in Marsascala. This year’s 11th edition is expected to be the biggest one yet!
When? This year: TBA
Where? Mdina, Malta
Why attend? While Mdina itself already brings you back into the past, seeing and hearing what the streets of Mdina might’ve been like in days gone by makes for a unique experience.
Type: Historical
Cost: Free
Mdina is an impressively well-preserved historical bastion city, and the Medieval festival in May takes the city right back to the Middle Ages, encouraging visitors to dabble in a spot of time travel and experience the heady days of the knighthood. In addition, traditional, local music floats down the streets, and flowers adorn every available space spreading the jovial feeling of spring.
There’s usually also a falconry display, and various exhibitions are held around the old bastion city.
TIP: Parking is limited, so if you’re planning to go by car, you’re better off parking near the National Park at Ta’ Qali and making use of free organised transport to get you to/from Mdina. It’ll be a 10-minute ride and will save you a lot of hassle
When? 6-9 June 2024
Where? Ta’ Qali National Park
Why visit? Good music and food with a laid-back attitude.
Type: Music
Cost: Tickets range from €30 (Super Early Bird Weekend Tickets), €50 (Early Bird Camping Ticket and €380 – €950 (Glamping Experience) *Take note of all booking fees listed on the website
This annual music and arts festival that spans three days in spring is a popular event among local youths, carrying a message of care for the environment. Several live bands perform, both local and foreign, and the weather never disappoints at this time of year, all in all creating a great laid-back, outdoor event to attend.
So grab a beer and some food, find yourself a nice patch, enjoy the songs, and just chill out.
When? TBA
Where? Laparelli Gardens, Valletta
Type: Cultural
Cost: Free
Enjoy an early summer’s night out with open-air screenings of various blockbuster movies across four nights. The selection of films usually contains scenes filmed in Valletta, highlighting its importance in the international world of film.
Seats are limited, and tickets are sold on a first-come-first-serve basis by the Ministry of Tourism, Valletta Cultural Agency and others.
When? June/July – This year: 14th June to 23rd June 2024
Where? Valletta, Malta
Why visit? A large variety of artists and performances in a great setting.
Type: Cultural
Cost: Free
The piece a la resistance of the Malta art scene, the Arts Festival is a major event celebrating a huge variety of art forms, including (but by no means limited to) music, dance, theatre, and art. Set throughout some of the most important cultural buildings in Valletta, visitors can explore Malta’s extraordinary and expansive arts scene in a concentrated space.
When? 29th June (annually)
Where? Buskett Gardens, Malta
Type: Cultural
Cost: Free
Meaning “Festival of Light”, L-Imnarja dates way back to the days before the Knights even arrived in Malta. Its roots stem from the solstice fires that burned throughout festivities but, today, the festival is a merry event for families and loved ones – picnics are the perfect pastime, and the wine is free-flowing, plus there is a selection of live acoustic music as darkness falls.
Why attend? It’s a great opportunity to see some important aspects of Maltese culture, giving you a taste of what the Maltese people’s heritage is all about.
When? TBA
Where? Argotti Botanic Gardens, Floriana
Type: Cultural
Cost: TBA
What’s more enjoyable than sampling some of the best local (and a selection of international) wines on an early summer’s night? Have a chill night out in the beautiful surroundings of Argotti Gardens (outskirts of Valletta) while enjoying food and live music.
More information about the event will be released closer to the date.
When? TBA
Where? Location changes every year, but it is generally held around Valletta
Why visit? A showcase of new and well-established designers + Awards Night
Type: Fashion
Cost: Varying ticket prices
Put your best foot forward and get ready to experience a true fashion extravaganza. Whilst cities like Milan, Paris, New York and London are renowned as the big fashion houses, Malta has certainly come a long way throughout the last few years.
Throughout the week, new and well-established designers showcase their very best ready-to-wear and showstopping designs for the upcoming season. On the final night, the Awards Night acknowledges the achievements of various nominees, including models, designers, hairdressers, make-up artists etc.
When? July (annually) – This year: 08-13 July 2024
Where? Valletta, Malta
Why visit? Great artists, excellent music.
Type: Music
Cost: Varying ticket prices depending on seating
The sun-drenched limestone architecture of Malta offers the perfect backdrop for a jazz festival, and this particular one is a bit of a spectacle. Set against the enchanting waterfront location of Ta’ Liesse in Valletta, headlining jazz performers take to the stage and provide the soundtrack to a three-day extravaganza of brass, bass, and beats.
When? TBA
Where? The Granaries, Floriana (just outside Valletta) and various nightlife venues around the islands.
Why visit? World-famous artists, excellent backdrop and great atmosphere.
Type: Entertainment
Cost: Entrance to the Island of MTV is free, while packages that include access to the VIP area at the concert (Pit Pass) and access to Malta Music Week parties vary from Gold, Platinum VIP etc.
Music festivals are all the rage these days, and Malta is not immune. The Isle of MTV Malta boasts a jaw-dropping collection of headline acts each year (Past line-ups included Lady Gaga, Martin Garrix, David Guetta, Will.I.Am, Rita Ora, Jason Derulo, Maroon 5, OneRepublic, Wiz Khalifa, Jessie J and many other popular artists and DJs). Thousands upon thousands of hedonistic music lovers converge on the island’s shores in late June for one of the largest free open-air concerts in the whole of Europe.
With various club nights and boat parties being organised around Malta and Gozo to celebrate the Isle of MTV, it’s a great way to explore the local clubbing and nightlife scene.
TIP: If you decide to attend, go early and keep in mind that transport options to/from the event will be limited. Alternatively, you can also book accommodation in Valletta.
When? Late July. This year: TBA
Where? Ta’ Qali National Park
Why visit? Cold beer and good music make for a nice combination to cool down on a hot summer’s eve. Weekdays are usually quieter, but the better bands play on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Cost: Free
Type: Food (& beer, of course!)
There’s nothing more refreshing on a hot summer’s day than a nice cold beer, and this particular July festival has beer in abundance.
Claiming to be one the largest and most diverse outdoor events in the whole of Malta, the Farsons Great Beer Festival boasts an array of samples, delicious food stalls, and a fairground for kids, all set to the soundtrack of a selection of live bands of local artists.
The event is obviously meant to promote both locally brewed beers as well as international brands, but it’s worth attending for the music and atmosphere as well!
When? TBA
Where? Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta
Why visit? Good selection of wines, good food and a laid-back evening to enjoy.
Cost: TBA. Normally €15 – €20 (Tickets normally include a souvenir glass).
Type: Food
Delicata, one of the well-renowned local wine producers organises its very own flavour of wine festival across two weekends. It’s a nice social event where you can enjoy a taste of various locally produced wines while enjoying music and good company.
Throughout the events, visitors can sample as many different local wines as they wish, soaked up with some of the delectable food on offer. To top it all off, various artists provide a soundtrack to the classy event whilst you enjoy great views (and a glass of wine or two) in a relaxed atmosphere.
When? 13th – 16th August 2024
Where? Multiple locations around Gianpula Village
Why visit? Headline acts and the best techno and house music DJs and producers
Type: Electronic / House / Techno Music Festival
Cost: Prices vary according to the ticket you choose (2-day block ticket or 2-day block VIP ticket and if you select add-on events
This 4-day dynamic festival is the ultimate treat for electronic, house and techno music lovers. Expect legendary DJs and rising stars who will be entertaining the crowd in several insane stages around Gianpula Village. More information about this year’s acts will be out closer to the day.
When? TBA (Usually falls on the week of The Feast of the Assumption )
Where? Ta’ Qali National Park
Why visit?
Cost: TBA (A small fee is usually used to cover the cost of a reusable cup and festival merchandise)
Type: Entertainment
Over the last few years, the Summer Daze Festival has become one of the most highly anticipated highlights of the warmer months. Past line-ups have included artists like Rita Ora, James Arthur, David Guetta, Jason Derulo, Anne Marie, Zara Larsson, Martin Garrix, Bastille, Elderbrook and many others.
Along with the main festival, you can expect boat parties, club nights and much more throughout the week. All in all, it’s a great event for young travellers who are interested in the nightlife scene on the island.
When? 21 September annually
Where? All over Malta and Gozo
Why attend? Plenty to see and do, making it a nice day out to enjoy.
Type: Cultural
Cost: Free
It seems that Malta has many historic events to commemorate, but this simply means that there is always an opportunity for a party! Since September 1964, the Maltese has celebrated its independence from the UK. Spreading out across the island, the event involves parades, marches, live music, and a general air of joviality.
When? September – This year: TBA
Where? Malta International Airport
Why attend? Always a good variety of stationery aircraft and live demonstrations by aviators from across the world. Nice opportunity for photographers too!
Type: Entertainment
Cost: TBA. Normally €13-15 (depending on which day you visit), Children under 14: Free
Flying is a fascinating thing, and it has become the subject of many annual events around the world. With its rich aviation history and a museum dedicated to the craft, it makes sense that Malta has one of the best shows in Europe.
At the end of September, flying enthusiasts (and even those who aren’t that enthusiastic about it) can watch amazing air displays flit over the beautiful Maltese landscape and learn more about the machines and their past.
When? 5th October 2024
Where? Valletta, Malta
Why visit? Great atmosphere, lots to see and discover and a great excuse to see Valletta by night.
Type: Cultural
Cost: Free
From the Italian for “White Night”, Notte Bianca is a much-anticipated one-night arts extravaganza that is held in early autumn. As the sun sets, art galleries, museums, and cultural hotspots put on special exhibitions, dance performances, and theatre shows, not closing their doors until the first glimmers of a new day begin to show.
Most museums are accessible for free during the evening, so it’s an opportunity to view a few of them, also at a different time of day. Every part of the capital is included in the event, and it is a great opportunity for visitors to explore works by local artists as well as international creative talent.
TIP: Since it’s a popular event Transport Malta usually organises additional transport for the occasion, so keep an eye out for that or ask wherever you’re staying for more info. The actual programme of performances and other events, as well as transport arrangements for the evening, are usually available from September on the organiser’s site.
When? Usually the second week of October – This year: TBA
Where? Birgu (Vittoriosa), Malta
Why visit? Great atmosphere, very well organised, and Birgu by night always impresses.
Type: Historical / Cultural
Cost: Free
In October every year, the quaint harbour town of Birgu (one of Malta’s oldest towns) puts on a mighty fine show with an event that’s become popular in recent years, and with good reason.
Highlighting the town’s rich history, as well as its old buildings and narrow alleys, Birgufest showcases historic re-enactments, and wonderfully decorated streets, and opens its museums, churches, and galleries until late.
The best part? The lights surrounding the harbour are switched off and replaced by thousands of atmospheric candles for a candlelight experience and mood.
When? 10th – 13th October 2024
Where? Mdina, Malta
Why attend? Very well organised, perfect for (classic) car lovers.
Type: Sports
Cost: Free
In early autumn, Mdina whirs into life with the annual Grand Prix. Winding through the scenic streets of the old, rustic town and the beautiful countryside, the classic cars taking part vie for first prize. Alongside the race, there are also numerous cultural activities to keep visitors busy – many of whom come from overseas, especially for the event.
When? October – This year: TBA (Start)
Where? Grand Harbour, Valletta, Malta
Type: Sports
Cost: Free
This classic annual event is a must-do for any sailing fanatic – or even those who just enjoy spending time by the sea. Beginning in the beautiful Grand Harbour beneath the imposing structure of the Saluting Battery, the race draws in thousands of visitors who watch from both sides of the harbour, enjoying the jovial atmosphere and the golden autumn sunshine.
Why attend? Impressive to watch the races from the bastions of Valletta, usually with great weather to boot still, at this time of year.
When? October – This year: TBA (Start)
Where? Grand Harbour, Valletta, Malta
Type: Sports
Cost: Free
This classic annual event is a must-do for any sailing fanatic – or even those who just enjoy spending a couple of hours by the sea. Beginning in the beautiful Grand Harbour beneath the imposing structure of the Saluting Battery, the race draws in thousands of visitors who watch from both sides of the harbour, enjoying the jovial atmosphere and the golden autumn sunshine.
Why attend? Impressive to watch the races from the bastions of Valletta, usually with great weather to boot still, at this time of year.
When? Various dates across October to December (annually). This year: TBA.
Where? Victoria, Gozo
Why visit? With a good choice of performances, there’s likely to be something to suit your tastes if you’re into the arts.
Type: Culture
Cost: TBA
The Festival Mediterranea is a series of events in celebration of Gozo’s arts and culture scene, with a full autumnal schedule of opera and music concerts, as well as lectures, talks and walks on some of the many ancient and historic hotspots on the island. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn more about Gozo’s past, as well as to experience its present-day creative landscape.
Please note that the programme of events is different each year, so it’s best to contact the event organiser, and they’ll be more than happy to answer your questions. Alternatively, you can do a quick search on the website for this year’s programme when available.
When? 30th October – 3rd November 2024
This year: TBA.
Where? Valletta
Type: Culture
Cost: TBA
The Three Palaces is a fairly new event on the calendar but offers beautiful performances in the stunning settings of some of Malta’s most beautiful palaces. Renowned artists from across the world put on display their interpretations and musical and dance artistry.
Details on this year’s performances will be announced later in the year on the organiser’s website.
When? All through December to the first week of January
Where? Valletta, Malta
Type: Entertainment
Cost: Free except for certain attractions
From a giant ferris wheel to a carousel, an ice rink and even a Christmas Village, Fairyland is Valletta’s very own winter wonderland. At the start of December, the city comes to life with enchanting magical lights, wonderful attractions for the whole family and an array of stalls selling delicious festive treats and artisanal works.
Valletta is beautiful all year round, but events like Fairyland make it shine extra brightly in December.
When? All through December to the first week of January
Where? Verdala Palace, Buskett Malta
Type: Entertainment
Cost: A variety of tickets range from €15 (adults), €12 (seniors), €8.50 (children between 3-13 years old) and Free (infants between 0-2 years old). N.B An additional booking fee is added to each purchase.
Know of an event in Malta you’d like to recommend? Leave a comment and let me know!
Looking for more ideas? Click here to find out more: Things to do in Malta.
Edward is the Founder and Editor of Malta Uncovered and author of two guidebooks on Malta and Valletta.
As a tourist-turned-expat with Maltese roots, he knows the islands inside out and helps thousands of visitors enjoy a memorable trip every year.
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Brilliant info, thanks for the heads up. We are visiting in June and looking forward to the Isle of MTV festival.
Welcome Scott, hope you have a blast!
Many thanks for the information. We will be visiting Malta next week and will be looking forward to using your recommendations. A very good and informative site, your time and effort are much appreciated
Glad to hear, thank you for your kind comments John!
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