Malta comes to life in the autumn. In September and October, the summer throngs fade away. The days are sunny, the waves are nice, and the pace is calmer. There are also a number of cultural and festival activities around this time of year, so it’s a fantastic time to see the island’s fun side. It’s easy to get around Malta if you book your accommodation at ST Hotels in Sliema or Gżira.
Feast of Our Lady of Victories (8 September)
Every year on September 8, Malta celebrates the Feast of Our Lady of Victories, which is also known as Victory Day. It is a national celebration with a lot of meaning that goes back to when the inhabitants of the island stood up against great powers.
The day remembers three key events:
- 1565: The Great Siege, when the Knights of St John and the Maltese held back the Ottoman Empire.
- 1800: The end of the French occupation, when British and Maltese forces pushed them out.
- 1943: The surrender of Italy during World War II, when its navy entered Grand Harbour.
The President leads a solemn ceremony at the Great Siege Monument in Valletta to honour those who battled to safeguard Malta. The towns of Senglea, Naxxar, Mellieħa, and Xagħra in Gozo also have their own patron feasts, which are a proud tradition that brings together history, faith, and community.
Aftersun Festival (17 September 2025)
The first Aftersun Festival 2025 will take place on September 17 at Floriana’s Fosos. It will be a new high point in Malta’s music scene.
The line-up brings together international stars and local talent:
- Robbie Williams, the global superstar headlining the night.
- Malta’s own AIDAN, bringing a local flavour to the stage.
- An after-party with iconic DJ Gigi D’Agostino, keeping the music going until late.
There are various types of tickets: standing, VIP, and accessible seats.
Independence Day (21 September)
On September 21, 1964, Malta became independent from Britain and was in charge of its own politics. A new constitution made Maltese the national language and kept English as an official language. It also made Malta’s national anthem and colours official. These are now essential symbols of the country’s identity.
Today, Independence Day is honoured across Malta with a programme of national events:
- Pontifical Mass at St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, led by the Archbishop of Malta.
- Flower-laying at the Independence Monument in Floriana, attended by the country’s leaders.
- An evening concert, with the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra and leading Maltese performers.
Science in the City (26-27 September)
In Valletta on September 26 and 27, Malta’s national scientific and arts event, science in the City, will take place. “Past Forward,” the topic for 2025, focuses on how things that happened in the past still have an impact on the present and shape ideas for the future.
The festival offers a wide variety of performances and installations:
- Sensory sound shows created for the deaf community.
- Improvised theatre and light comedies.
- Immersive light and sound installations across historic venues.
- Artists from Malta, Spain, Germany, and the UK are taking part.
Beyond the stage, visitors can join interactive workshops. These include lamp-making sessions, fast-paced urban design challenges, and even writing science-inspired songs.
The programme is a fun blend of learning and being creative. It’s perfect for families, students, and everyone who wants to know how science works in real life.
Mighty Hoopla Weekender in Malta (September 26–29)
The Mighty Hoopla Weekender will be in Malta at the end of September. This four-day festival is all about having fun, music, and different kinds of people. Malta is regarded for being a gay-friendly place in the Mediterranean. This festival combines the island’s warm weather with a friendly party vibe.
The line-up features a mix of pop icons and fan favourites:
- Trixie Mattel
- Leigh-Anne
- Melanie C
- Ultra Naté
- Katy B, along with other exciting acts
The programme is packed with activities such as lively pool parties, colourful beach takeovers, indulgent bottomless brunches, and energetic drag and DJ nights.
Notte Bianca (October 4)
On October 4, Valletta will host Notte Bianca, one of Malta’s greatest cultural events. For one night, the capital becomes a stage where every street and square is filled with music, art, and drama.
Visitors can expect:
- Museums, churches, and palaces stay open late into the night.
- Cafés and restaurants extend their hours to keep the city buzzing.
- Street performances and exhibitions set against Valletta’s historic backdrop.
The atmosphere is full of life and variety, and there is always something new to discover. Notte Bianca is a fun way for both locals and tourists to see Valletta that mixes old and contemporary concepts.
TrakaFest World Music Festival (17–19 October)
The TrakaFest World Music Festival will take place at the Pembroke BMX Indoor Warehouse from October 17 to 19. This exciting event was put on by the Trakadum School of Percussion to promote culture, rhythm, and community.
Visitors can enjoy a wide mix of activities:
- Percussion workshops open to both beginners and experienced drummers.
- A colourful artisan market showcasing handmade crafts.
- Flavours from local and international food trucks.
- Family-friendly activities designed to welcome all ages.
The highlight for 2025 is Bibiche Sambou Touré Fakoly, a renowned African percussion master who will lead workshops and give dynamic performances.
The Bottom Line
September and October are the ideal months to visit Malta. The weather stays warm, there aren’t as many people, and there are a lot of national holidays, music festivals, and cultural nights during the season.
ST Hotels has hotels in Gżira and Sliema, which are near to Valletta, Floriana, and Pembroke, where there are festivals and events. You’ll also be able to see the harbour and get to cafés and promenades easily.
Stay with ST Hotels and make the most of Malta’s autumn. The hotels are nice, easy to get to, and in a great spot for both events and relaxing.
Book your room today and plan a Malta trip that feels personal, peaceful, and perfectly located.
