Christmas and New Year in Malta are both traditional and lively. The streets are lit up, church bells ring out in the towns, and families come together for special holiday meals.
This time of year, tourists may enjoy activities and sights, as well as the chance to see Malta at its most happy and hospitable. Here’s how to celebrate Christmas and New Year in Malta and make the most of the season.
Keep in mind It’s easy to get around Malta if you book your accommodation at ST Hotels in Sliema or Gżira.
Malta’s Christmas Traditions
Malta is a warm and welcoming place to be around at Christmas. People all around the islands have nativity cribs, or presepji, in their homes, churches, and exhibitions. Families typically make their own cribs, keeping a craft alive that has been passed down through the years. Some villages even conduct exhibitions where locals proudly show off their hand-made cribs.
On Christmas Eve, children walk around towns and villages bearing statues of Baby Jesus and singing carols. The most well-known event is Midnight Mass at St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta. The Child’s Sermon, a Maltese tradition during which a young child relates the story of the Nativity, is part of this particular ceremony.
After Midnight Mass, families typically go out to breakfast together at neighbourhood cafés. This is a practice that makes the holiday season feel more joyous and brings people together.
Markets and Villages for the Holidays
There are several markets and villages in Malta that are full of lights and music throughout the holidays. They all have something unique to offer:
- Valletta Christmas Market: There are stalls in the Valletta Christmas Market where you can buy homemade products, holiday delicacies, and see live performances.
- Rabat Christmas Village is a cosy place with handmade products, holiday snacks, and fun things for kids to do.
- Magical Illuminated Trail at Verdala Palace: Running through December, this trail lights up the gardens with lanterns, themed areas, and train rides.
- Popeye Village is a fun place to go during the holidays. There are Christmas shows, parades, and the chance to see Santa and his happy mascots.
- Bethlehem f’Għajnsielem in Gozo is a life-size nativity hamlet with actors, real animals, and settings that you can interact with to make the Christmas story come to life.
These markets and villages show off Malta’s artistic side and allow tourists a chance to celebrate with locals in beautiful, joyful places.
Food and Seasonal Goodies
Food is always a part of celebrations in Malta. Roast turkey is traditionally the main dish for Christmas lunch, and it is often served with Mediterranean flavours and local foods. Desserts and sweets are equally as important:
- Qagħaq tal-għasel – These are pastry rings packed with spiced honey.
- Pudina tal-Milied – This is a delicious Christmas pudding cooked with spices and dried fruits.
- Imqaret – These are crispy fried pastries filled with dates that are often served fresh at marketplaces.
- Imbuljuta – This is a warm chestnut and cocoa drink, perfect for December evenings.
Hotels and restaurants also have seasonal buffets, afternoon teas, and Christmas Eve dinners that mix Mediterranean dishes with well-known dishes from throughout the world.
For New Year’s Eve, many offer gala dinners with multi‑course menus, making dining part of the celebration itself. Booking in advance is essential, as festive tables fill quickly.
Concerts, Pantomimes & Carol Singing
Music and theatre play a big part in Malta’s holiday celebrations. Some of the most popular annual events include:
- Concerts at St. John’s Co-Cathedral: Choirs and orchestras performing Christmas classics in a breath-taking baroque setting.
- Carol singing: Choirs filling Valletta’s squares, Sliema’s promenades, and village streets with festive music.
- Christmas pantomimes: Comedic shows staged by companies like MADC and FM Productions, blending humour, music, and audience participation.
Families often make it a tradition to attend at least one concert or panto during the holidays, keeping the spirit of Christmas alive through music and theatre.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Malta closes the year with fireworks, music, and lively gatherings. The two most popular spots are:
Valletta: Republic Street and St George’s Square host concerts, live performances, and the big countdown. Fireworks over the Grand Harbour create one of the most spectacular views of the season.
St Julian’s: Spinola Bay and Paceville buzz with nightlife, DJ sets, and dancing until dawn, drawing younger crowds and party lovers.
For the best fireworks views, head to Upper Barrakka Gardens or the Grand Harbour waterfront. Families tend to favour Valletta’s outdoor celebrations, while partygoers gather in St Julian’s. Many hotels and restaurants also host themed New Year’s Eve parties, making it easy to celebrate in style.
Conclusion
Christmas and New Year in Malta bring together beloved traditions, lively markets, music, and dazzling fireworks. With mild winter days, cultural sights, and a friendly atmosphere, the islands have something for everyone. Visitors can explore nativity villages, enjoy a festive pantomime, or join the countdown in Valletta as fireworks light up the Grand Harbour.
For a holiday that blends comfort with convenience, stay at ST Hotels in Sliema and Gzira. Close to promenades, shops, and celebrations, these hotels make it easy to enjoy the season. Special festive packages include seasonal meals and cosy rooms, creating the perfect setting for a memorable Christmas and New Year in Malta.
Celebrate the season in style and let Malta’s festive spirit make your holiday truly unforgettable!
ST Hotels has hotels in Gżira and Sliema, which are near to Valletta and any other town or city.
Stay with ST Hotels and make the most of Malta’s Christmas Season. 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.
