For such a tiny island, Malta sure knows how to fill its calendar with celebrations! With an impressive lineup of public holidays, even us locals sometimes find it tricky to keep track—so we can only imagine the puzzle it poses for our friends from abroad. Fear not, whether you're a lifelong Maltese or a curious traveler eager to dive into our island's festivities, we've got you covered. We've crafted a handy guide to help you mark your calendars, plan your days off, and immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Malta. Ready to explore the joyous occasions that dot the Maltese calendar?
Here's your go-to list of all 14 of Malta’s public holidays :
1) New Year's Day (Jum l-Isena) - January 1st
The very first day of the year is greeted with open arms in Malta. Festivities often spill out into the streets with lively parades, concerts, and fireworks displays. It's a time to reflect on the past year and embrace the fresh opportunities the new one brings.
2. Feast of St. Paul's Shipwreck (Jum San Pawl Nawfragu) - February 10th
Celebrated on the 10th of February, this feast commemorates the shipwreck of St. Paul on the Maltese shores in 60 AD. The day is marked with processions, religious ceremonies, and a festive atmosphere that reverberates through the streets of Valletta.
3. Feast of St. Joseph - March 19th
The Feast of St. Joseph celebrates the patron saint of workers, families, and the Universal Church. It's a day of reflection and gratitude, with religious processions and ceremonies taking place across Malta.
4. Freedom Day (Jum il-Helsien) - March 31st
March 31st holds special significance in Maltese history. On this day in 1979, British forces withdrew from Malta, marking the island's journey to full independence. The occasion is observed with parades, exhibitions, and cultural events that pay tribute to Malta's sovereignty.
5. Good Friday (Il-Ġimgħa l-Kbira) - March 29th
A deeply significant religious holiday, Good Friday sees solemn processions reenacting the Passion of Christ. Communities across Malta and Gozo come together to reflect on the crucifixion, creating an atmosphere of reverence and contemplation
6. Worker's Day (Jum il-Ħaddiem) - May 1st
On May 1st, Malta joins the global celebration of labor and workers' rights. The day is marked by various events, including marches, exhibitions, and cultural activities, acknowledging the contributions of the workforce.
7. Sette Giugno - June 7th
Sette Giugno, or the 7th of June, is a day of historical importance. It commemorates a pivotal uprising in 1919, where the Maltese people sought constitutional reforms. The day is remembered with exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events.
8. Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul (L-Imnarja) - June 29th
Celebrated on June 29th, this feast combines religious devotion with lively festivities. It's a day of feasting, folk music, and traditional Maltese games, creating a joyous and communal atmosphere.
9. Feast of the Assumption (Santa Marija) - August 15th
August 15th is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. It's a day of religious processions and festivities, with particular emphasis in villages like Mosta and Mqabba, where the feast is celebrated with grandeur.
10. Feast of Our Lady of Victories - September 8th
September 8th commemorates the end of the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. The day is marked with military reenactments, parades, and cultural events that honor the resilience and victory of the Maltese people.
11. Independence Day - September 21st
September 21st is a day of great historical significance, marking Malta's attainment of full independence from British rule in 1964. The occasion is celebrated with official ceremonies, cultural events, and displays of national pride.
12. Feast of the Immaculate Conception - December 8th
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception celebrates the belief in the Virgin Mary's immaculate conception. It's a day of religious observance, with church services and processions taking place throughout Malta.
13. Republic Day (Jum ir-Repubblika) - December 13th
December 13th is a day of patriotic pride, celebrating Malta's establishment as a republic in 1974. Festivities include flag-raising ceremonies, parades, and cultural activities that reflect the spirit of the nation.
14. Christmas Day (Il-Milied) - December 25th
Celebrated on December 25th, Christmas Day in Malta is a time of joy, festivities, and religious observances. Families come together to exchange gifts and share special meals, and churches hold midnight Mass services to mark the birth of Jesus.
There you have it, a vibrant guide to Malta’s public holidays, designed to help both locals and visitors celebrate like true islanders. Each holiday is an open invitation to dive into our traditions, enjoy communal festivities, and make lasting memories under the Maltese sun.
Circle these dates, plan your adventures, and remember, with the Archipals, every day is a chance to join in on the fun and discover the heart of Malta. Here's to making the most of these special days, sprinkled with a bit of Archipals magic.
Cheers to vibrant celebrations and sunny days ahead. See you at the festivities!
