THE MALTESE ISLANDS Events Calendar Highlights

THE MALTESE ISLANDS
Events Calendar
Highlights 2015
www.visitmalta.com/events
Your guide to the best events and festivals in Malta
Discover what is happening in Malta with our
comprehensive events calendar! From opera
festivals and MTV concert to village feasts and
fireworks festivals there is always something going on all
year round for everybody.
Malta’s warm Mediterranean climate is reflected in our
personality. Kind, hospitable and friendly, we go out of our
way to make visitors feel at home and share our passion for
life. Whether you’re after exploring the Island’s rich history
and culture or to dance the night away in the various
nightclubs that populate Malta’s entertainment hub, you are
sure to find an event to complement your tastes.
MR PAUL BUGEJA
Chief Executive Officer,
Malta Tourism Authority
Make use of the events calendar to plan your holiday ahead of time to be sure you do
not miss out.
Check our website www.visitmalta.com/events regularly as upcoming events are
updated frequently.
The things to see and do in Malta are endless, and we encourage you to seek out
your own Malta experience. Enjoy!
1
June
Sette Giugno - Annual Event
7th June
On 7th June every year, Malta commemorates the tragic events of 7-6-1919 known as the ‘Sette
Giugno’. This is in remembrance of the riots of 1919 when the Maltese people revolted against the
British administration and demanded some form of representative government for the island. Four
people died on that fateful day. A commemorative ceremony will be held at St. George’s Square
Valletta, Malta organised by the National Festivities Committee. A similar commemoration will take
place in Xagħra, Gozo.
Victoria International Arts Festival, GOZO
10th June – 13th July
The Victoria International Arts Festival Foundation is a non-profit organisation which organises a
full 5-week run of uninterrupted cultural activities. It is the organisation’s mission to organise and
present these cultural events free of charge each year. Providing cultural activity for free over an
uninterrupted period of five weeks helps the organisers reach out to a wide spectrum of patrons and
it also enables the organisers to agree on a very moderate financial agreement with participating
artistes. This policy has earned the organisation the respect and admiration of both Maltese and
foreign musicians who participate in the Festival.
A major focus is on voluntary work. Indeed, to date, the organising committee has
always offered its professional services for free and this is encouraging young people to come on
board and help out, also on a voluntary basis, in anything that is required of them.
Over the past years, the Festival has gone beyond the fondest dreams of the organisers to the extent that for some years now, the Festival has established itself solidly as
Malta’s longest-running high culture event with an ever-widening international
dimension.
Għanafest
12th-14th June
Għanafest offers a unique opportunity to experience the different styles of għana.
Besides Maltese folk music, the festival presents a programme of local musicians and ensembles.
The festival also hosts a series of workshops on traditional instruments and a special programme
for children. A wonderful event for the whole family
complemented by traditional Maltese food and the marvellous surroundings of the
Argotti Botanical Gardens in Floriana.
Photo - Jeremy de Maria
2
June
1st Valletta Film Festival
15th-21st June
In June 2015, Valletta will be hosting its first international feature film festival. For 7 days, the Capital
City will transform into a festival city, filled with film, music, knowledge and creativity. The event will
consist of an official competition (feature films, docs and shorts) and 4 other sections. In total around
45 feature films will be screened at this first edition of the festival, at five of the city’s most attractive
locations. Attendees will have the opportunity to see and hear established and upcoming filmmakers
presenting and discussing their films. But the presence of filmmakers and film stars in Valletta won’t
be everything the festival has to offer. This, above all, will be a community joy ride, one to share with
family, friends and neighbours. We invite you to the smallest capital city in Europe, to celebrate with
us Europe’s newest film event.
Festival of Figs and Local Traditional Food
20-21 June
The Xaghra Local Council will organise the sixth edition of the figs festival on Saturday and Sunday,
20th and 21st June. The aim of this festival is to promote Maltese figs and typical products. The
Xaghra Local Council is the only Maltese council which is a member of the ficusnet network which is
a network of European towns and cities which produce figs as one of their typical products.
The festival will also include an international conference on methods of cultivation and uses of figs.
This will take place during the half day on Saturday 20th June in the ‘Dun Alwig Camilleri Hall’ in
the Victory Band Club. One can also find an interesting exhibition of products made from figs and
other typical products on Sunday 21st June between 7.30am and 1.00pm in Victory Square. Those
attending will have the possibility to buy these products. Among things that will be exhibited, one is
to mention the traditional biskuttini tar-rahal, carob syrup, traditional pies and other traditional food
and sweets.
This event is held in collaboration with the Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government and the
Malta Tourism Authority (MTA).
The Xaghra Local Council urges the Maltese and Gozitan public to attend for this festival which has
now found a major place in the annual cultural calendar of Xaghra and of the whole island.
3
June
1565 – First and Last Hope
26th – 29th June
An interactive and site-specific performance featuring some of Malta’s best actors centred around
the events prior, during and after the Great Siege of 1565. The audience will be able to experience
what it would have been like to live those days of great tension, turmoil and also patriotism by being
directly involved in the performance.
Trophee Bailli de Suffren
27th June-8th July
The Trophee Bailli de Suffren is a classic yacht race covering 600 miles from
Saint-Tropez to Grand Harbour Marina in Malta, whilst visiting some of the most exotic ports in the
Mediterranean such as Porto Rotundo and Trapani. This event highlights an
antique connection that exists between Malta and France, way back to 1748 where
cruises by French Admiral Pierre Andre de Suffren were organised with the galleys of the Order of
the Knights of St John.
The Mediterranean’s most beautiful yacht race is also the longest race for classic yachts which is
run over three legs; Leg 1: Saint-Tropez to Porto Rotondo, Sardinia (193nm) Leg 2: Porto Rotondo,
Sardinia to Trapani, Sicily (230nm) Leg 3: Trapani, Sicily to Grand Harbour, Malta (169nm)
4
June
Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul; L-Imnarja - Annual Event
29th June
This feast marks an important event in the calendar of Maltese popular customs and traditions. It is
a country harvest and folk festival as well as a religious holiday. It dates back even further than the
arrival of the Knights of St John in 1530, thus making it one of the oldest feasts celebrated on the
Maltese Islands.
The Feast commemorates two important Saints
in Maltese religious lore, St. Peter and St. Paul.
The word luminarja is derived from the Latin
word Luminare - to light up. It is named after the
bonfires that used to light up the festivities in the
towns of
Mdina and Rabat. This was the way
people manifested their joy in recognition of a
particular feast, such lighting being offered by
burning bonfires and candles. This feast has
somewhat moved away from the traditional village ‘festa’ style and has developed a different
type of merriment which is held in Buskett Garden on the eve of June 29 the day of the feast.
During the late afternoon hours, numerous horse and donkey races are held in a country lane situated just below and at some distance from Mdina. The contenders vie for the Palju (a traditional
banner that is presented as a trophy to the winners of various
categories of races) which in olden times used to be presented to the winners by none other than
the Grand Master of the Order. The feast of St. Peter and St. Paul is also
celebrated in Nadur, Gozo, and this time in the usual festive manner that is normally held in towns
and villages.
It is also a Public Holiday.
Summer Folk Festival, Buskett Gardens
28th-29th June
The origins of this festival date back to before the arrival of the Knights of St John in 1530. It acquired its name from the bonfires that used to light up the festivities in Mdina and Rabat. Today,
the feast is marked by various events. On the eve, families and friends gather at Buskett Gardens,
Malta’s largest woodland area, for a picnic which normally carries on into the night. The traditional
rabbit dish and wine will be at the top of the day’s menu, accompanied by the singing and music of
local folk bands. On the following day, the celebrations continue with an agricultural show, followed
by bareback horse and donkey races at Saqqajja Hill, just below Mdina.
5
July
Isle of MTV Malta Special
Isle of MTV Malta Special
7th July
The Isle of MTV Concert is the apex of a week-long festival of live music. The annual Isle of MTV
music event in Malta is an MTV Networks International production. A world class line up of artistes
will play in a free live concert on the Granaries in Floriana in front of a crowd which annually tops the
50,000 mark. Once again this promises to be one of the summer’s must-see musical events.
The Isle of MTV Malta is unique in offering young people across Europe an exclusive opportunity
to experience some of the world’s best new and established artistes here in Malta. This event has
become an important annual destination for music lovers.
This year, Isle of MTV Malta will be hosting the International hitmaker, Jason Derulo; the vocal
powerhouse, Jess Glynne; and Global Superstar DJ Martin Garrix
6
July
Marsovin Summer Wine Festival
10th-12th July
The 8th Edition of the Marsovin Summer Wine festival is set to be a wine festival with a difference.
The location alone lends itself perfectly, to a walk through garden wine festival whilst enjoying the
majestic views from the Valletta bastions. The event is set to have a highly cultural and entertaining
concept offering a myriad of professional
musicians performing daily throughout the festival.
The line-up on show shall include some of Malta’s leading bands and live acts. A wine competition
bar shall also be amongst the attractions that shall be lined up for each night of this special event.
Marsovin has also engaged various restaurants and caterers, to showcase their cuisine offering a
small but enticing selection of dishes at very
reasonable prices.
Marsovin will be offering a selection of 30 different D.O.K and I.Ġ.T wines from grapes grown around
Malta and Gozo.
7
July
The Malta Arts Festival
10th-26th July
The Festival offers a broad range of genres and artistic forms through a varied
programme of theatre, music, dance and visual arts. Held mainly in open-air venues thanks to Malta’s warm summer nights, the event has over the years opened up
little-used and special venues, and has been an impetus for the islands to set about
providing a greater diversity of art and performance spaces.
The Malta Arts Festival aims to balance quality popular acts with lesser-known
intriguing work which nevertheless pushes boundaries. The festival also prides itself on supporting
emerging artists. Residencies and workshops also play an essential role in this festival.
Photo - Joe Smith
Photo - Matthew Mirabelli
Photo - Rene Rossignaud
8
July
1565 – Shadows from the Great Siege
15th July
An animated tour of the streets of Senglea (Isla) during which the participants will not only be given
information on the relevant points of interest but will also encounter various characters who featured
in the Great Siege of 1565.
The Malta Jazz Festival
16th-18th July
The Malta Jazz Festival has become a synonym for high-calibre performances which
delight jazz aficionados and lay persons alike. For almost 25 years, the Malta Jazz
Festival has been raising the bar for jazz in Malta, keeping its soul alive.
In the days preceding and following the festival, a number of events part of “Jazz on the Fringe”
including master classes and open-air concerts will be held. In 2013, the first editions of the Malta
Summer Jazz Camp and Jazz Contest were included in Jazz on the Fringe.
9
Photo - Joe Smith
July
Sliema Arts Festival
17-19 July
The 3rd edition of the Sliema Arts Festival (SAF), will be taking place between Friday 17th and Sunday 19th July 2015, on Sliema’s promenade, gardens and beaches.
The promenade will be transformed into a melting pot of art, where a number of local and international street and urban artists will converge and unite on Sliema’s unique promenade, to offer their
creative talents to the hundreds of passers-by.
The festival is not only about arts, but it also includes a number of other areas, in its gardens and on
its beaches, such as the Main Stage area in the Independence Gardens which will feature some of
Malta’s best bands. The beaches shall be playing host 3 other music areas, an Alternative Stage, a
chillout and house music area, hosted by Duncan F and Alex Thomson, and a reggae area, hosted
by JUULS Reggae Bar.
The SAF also features a number of healthy food and drink stalls.
10
JULY / August
Summer Night Music
Saturday 4th July – Tramps Live – Xlendi, Gozo
Monday 6th July – Mario Caruana in Concert – Marsalforn, Gozo
Saturday 11th July – Brass Delights – Imgarr Harbour, Gozo
NB: Every Saturday Xlendi Bay will be illuminated by hundreds of traditional flaming torches which
transform the bay into a truly magical place
Joseph Calleja live in Concert
3rd August
The Internationally acclaimed Maltese tenor Joseph Calleja last year delighted
thousands of people on the granaries in a concert that featured the best of classical music together
with the more modern songs of Leona Lewis, Claudio Baglioni and Bryn Terfel. This year, the tenor
shall once again be presenting his magical voice through a concert at the Luxol Grounds,
St Andrews together with American singing sensation Anastacia
Photo - Paul Zammit Cutajar
11
August
Gozo Ceramics Festival, Xlendi
1st August
The Gozo Ceramics Festival shall be a presentation of ceramic items by local artists who will be
working live, demonstrating different techniques such as throwing, coiling,
modelling, slab building and also firing.
The Delicata Wine Festival, Valletta & Nadur
6th-9th August & 28th-30th August
MALTA’S GREATEST WINE EVENT IS BACK - for its 14th year, at the Upper Barrakka Gardens in
Valletta on 6/7/8/9th August 2015, from 7.00pm until midnight – and then 3 weeks later on 28/29/30th
August it happens all over again in Nadur, Gozo.
At both festivals the way it works is simple – Entrance is free but should one want to drink wine,
you will have to purchase a wristband and a souvenir glass (which is then yours to keep) and try as
many of the twenty wines on offer as you like, as often as you like. The last glasses shall be sold at
11.00pm, last wine poured at 11.30pm and the
festivals close at midnight. No glasses will be sold or alcohol poured to anyone under the age of 17.
There will be a wide range of award winning D.O.K. Malta and Gozo quality wine brands available to
taste such as Gran Cavalier, Grand vin de Hauteville, Pjazza Regina, Medina, Victoria Heights, the
Maltese Falcon, Delicata’s Frizzantes, all produced from a number of locally grown grapes varieties
such as Chardonnay, Grenache, Merlot, Vermentino, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah
and of course the two unique indigenous Maltese grapes Girgentina and Gellewza.
At the Valletta festival, Maltese dishes such as Suckling Pig, Maltese Fried Rabbit, Pasta, Pizza as
well as international dishes including seafood specialities, sushi platters,
oriental noodle dishes, Indian dishes, paella and a selection of platters with a variety of tasty cheeses and charcuterie shall be on offer. Downstairs at the Saluting Battery a
fully seated restaurant will be set up where diners can enjoy breath-taking views over the harbour
and the ancient floodlit 3 cities beyond, whilst enjoying themed buffet nights accompanied by Delicata wines. Reservations are highly recommended.
Live entertainment shall be performed every night in Valletta by some of Malta’s
leading artistes including Big Band Brothers, The Spiteri Lucas Band, The Crowns, Cash & Band
and George Curmi (Puse) and his band.
In Nadur Gozo, there shall also be live entertainment every night and an assortment of food stalls
selling both Gozitan and International dishes. There will also be a regular shuttle service operating
each night between the Mgarr ferry terminal and the festival in Nadur, as well as a public bus service.
12
August
“La Notte di San Lorenzo” – Annual Summer Fireworks show
9th August
This annual fireworks show is a spectacular fireworks night at the Grand Harbour kicking off at 22:00
hrs...and free of charge for all to enjoy.
The show shall include fireworks synchronised to music and traditional Maltese
fireworks which will be fired off of barges in the Grand Harbour.
The show is organised by the ‘10th August Pyrotechnic Association’ of Vittoriosa, on the occasion of
the feast of St. Lawrence of Vittoriosa.
The best venue to enjoy the fireworks is in the vicinity of the Vittoriosa Regatta Club.
For further information please contact 10th August Pyrotechnic Association on [email protected]
Marsovin Grape Harvest Feast
14th August
Malta’s largest producer of premium wine will be holding an event called The Marsovin Grape Harvest Feast at their Marnisi Estate in Marsaxlokk. As the event name suggests the winery will be
celebrating the start of the grape harvest for vintage 2015, whilst also giving patrons the opportunity
to taste the wines produced from the Marnisi Estate in the idyllic setting of the vineyard.
The event gives all patrons the opportunity to admire the vineyard at the peak of its annual lifecycle.
For those who wish to have a closer look, a guided vineyard tour will also be held at 7pm by Marsovin’s wine specialists.
13
August
The overall aim of such events is to give people the opportunity to further appreciate the value of
Maltese viticulture as a whole. Mouth-watering food, Malta’s leading
musicians and the idyllic surroundings of Marnisi Estate, promise to make this event a truly memorable experience!
The Feast of the Assumption of our Lady- Annual Event
15th August
The Feast of the Assumption, also known as the feast of ‘Santa Maria’, is celebrated every year on
the 15th of August and marks the ascent into heaven by the Virgin Mary. The feast of the Assumption
is honoured all around the Maltese Islands, and also has a prominent place in the history of Malta.
This popular Maltese ‘festa’ is the peak of the summer season of religious village feasts and is celebrated in 7 towns and villages: Għaxaq, Gudja, Ħ’Attard, Mosta, Mqabba and Qrendi in Malta, and
Victoria in Gozo. It is also a public holiday.
14
August / September
Summer Night Music
Monday 3rd August – Straitahead – Marsalforn, Gozo
Saturday 8th August – Divine Sinners – Imgarr Harbour, Gozo
Sunday 16th August – D Capitals – Marsalforn, Gozo
Saturday 22nd August – Brass Tubes – Imgarr Harbour, Gozo
Monday 31st August – Upper Lip – Marsalforn, Gozo
Henry Alamango – Water Colours Art Exhibition
4th-28th September
To be held at the Banca Giuratale in Victoria, Gozo
Il-Vitorja - Annual Event
8th September
Commemoration of 450 years from the end of the Great Siege
This date commemorates the end of the Great Siege of 1565, the end of the French
occupation of Malta in 1800 and co-incidentally enough the armistice of the Fascist
regime in Italy in 1943. In the latter, the connection with Malta was two-fold: the
bombardments by the ‘Aeronautica’ were over and the Italian Navy was brought to
Malta to remain moored at St. Paul’s Bay until the end of the war.
The morning will be taken up by various State ceremonies amongst which a parade by the Armed
Forces of Malta. During the afternoon, an avidly contested traditional rowing boat regatta is held in
the Grand Harbour. In the evening, there are at least four towns in Malta and Gozo, which celebrate
the feast of Our Lady as a Child (Maria Bambina/Our Lady of Victory). Indeed the feast which is
centuries old changed its name to
Il-Madonna tal-Vitorja, following the end of the Great Siege of 1565.
Feast of Maria Bambina- Annual Event
8th September
The Traditional village feast commemorating the Nativity of Our Lady is celebrated
locally in four different villages. These villages are Senglea, Naxxar and Mellieha in
Malta, as well as Xaghra in Gozo.
15
September
Victory Day Regatta - Annual Event
Photo - Clive Vella
8th September
The traditional Victory Day Regatta is held on September 8th in Grand Harbour to
celebrate Malta’s victories during the Great Siege of 1565 and the Second World War. The magnificent Fort St Angelo provides an imposing backdrop to the sleek and
colourful Maltese boats. Rowing teams from the cities bordering Grand Harbour such as Valletta,
Vittoriosa, Senglea, Kalkara, Cospicua, Marsaxlokk and Marsa, participate in a number of very exciting races, marked by extreme rivalry between participating teams and their respective supporters.
For weeks on end, the competitors prepare for the races with fanatic zeal and rivalry. In the afternoon of Regatta day thousands of people crowd the waterfront and the surrounding bastions and
craft of every description converge to the Grand Harbour to watch the races. The first 3 winners in
each race are awarded prizes and the club with the highest overall points wins the Aggregate Shield.
Each year the different regatta clubs do their best to win the shield, which is strongly contested.
VIVA 2015
8th September
In its second edition in 2015, the Valletta International Visual Arts (VIVA) Festival shall be creating a
unique platform for contemporary art in Malta whilst initiating a process of change in the local cultural scene. With a wide variety of local and international artists presenting recent work or collaborating
in joint projects, VIVA is creating new
international networks which will last far beyond the festival itself.
Photo - Elisa Von Brockdorff
16
September
Balzan Arts and Music Festival
11th September
This festival is a celebration of multiculturalism. Due to Valletta 2018 the festival will aim to promote
Maltese artists and musicians in order to celebrate their cultural achievements. The Balzan Local
Council, together with the local organisations, shall provide the setting for artistic exhibitions, while
musical and cultural performances will be carried out by local artists within the main square and
streets of the village core. Several local entities will be preparing food from different countries and
local artists will be participating in the musical aspect of the intercultural evening.
The project will help towards the integration of different subcultures present in the Hal Balzan local
community and by promoting local comtemporary and classical art, one is also promoting the architectural and cultural heritage of the village. Local youths will be given an opportunity to manifest their
talents. The project will enhance cultural integration and communication. Hal Balzan is a multicultural residential area. It enriches the civil commitment of the Hal Balzan community. The hospitality
of the local community towards the refugees both in the past, WWII and present will provide the
potential for its consolidation in the community. With Malta being chosen as the capital city of culture
for 2018, this is an opportunity for every village in Malta to embrace local talents and celebrate the
diverse cultural elements present in our society.
Qala International Folk Festival 10th Edition
18-20 September
This festival is a celebration of multiculturalism. Due to Valletta 2018 the festival will aim to promote
Maltese artists and musicians in order to celebrate their cultural achievements. The Balzan Local
Council, together with the local organisations, shall provide the setting for artistic exhibitions, while
musical and cultural performances will be carried out by local artists within the main square and
streets of the village core. Several local entities will be preparing food from different countries and
local artists will be participating in the musical aspect of the intercultural evening.
The project will help towards the integration of different subcultures present in the Hal Balzan local
community and by promoting local comtemporary and classical art, one is also promoting the architectural and cultural heritage of the village. Local youths will be given an opportunity to manifest their
talents. The project will enhance cultural integration and communication. Hal Balzan is a multicultural residential area. It enriches the civil commitment of the Hal Balzan community. The hospitality
of the local community towards the refugees both in the past, WWII and present will provide the
potential for its consolidation in the community. With Malta being chosen as the capital city of culture
for 2018, this is an opportunity for every village in Malta to embrace local talents and celebrate the
diverse cultural elements present in our society.
28
September
Malta International Musical Bands Festival
8th-13th September
A six-day festival consisting of bands, majorette, groups, marching bands, folk groups, street bands,
piper bands, form the sixth edition of the Malta International Musical Bands Festival 2015. During
the festival there shall be three parades, each of half a day, taking place in various towns on the
island.
Independence Day - Annual Event
21st September
Malta gained its political Independence from Britain on the 21st of September 1964. On the night of
the 20-21st September, the Maltese flag was raised at Independence Arena, Floriana, amidst the
cheers of the large crowd present. Malta had become an
independent nation.
Various activities are held every year to mark this important date in Maltese history.
Malta International Airshow
26th-27th September
Held annually each September at the Malta International Airport (ex: RAF Luqa), the Malta International Air Show, one of Malta’s largest outdoor events, has gained the
well-earned reputation as one of Malta’s top outdoor family events.
The Malta International Airshow is the result of strong lobbying from the Malta Aviation Society for
many years until approval was given to hold the first display in September of 1993.
Twenty two years have elapsed since the very first proper air show held in Malta and the event has
grown both in numbers as well as quality. Over the years, the Malta
International Airshow has attracted many interesting aircraft including Israeli F-15s and F-16s, Czech
L-39, Italian F-104s and Do-228, Ex-Israeli A-4 Skyhawks, US Navy F-14,
EA-6B, S-3s, F-18s, Tornados, B-52, B-1B, Spitfire and Hurricane plus most of the
European national display teams including the Red Arrows, Patrouille de France, Frecce Tricolori,
the Spanish team Patruila Aguoila, Swiss PC-7 Team and Breitling Jet Team.
Photo - Aaron Briffa
28
September
Żejt iż-Żejtun
26th-27th September
Żejt iż-Żejtun, the event celebrating the olive picking season and olive pressing for oil will be held in
Żejtun during the evening of Saturday, 26th and Sunday, 27th September.
Drummers and flag bearers in medieval costumes, together with folk singers and
dancers, will provide the traditional musical input in celebration of a bountiful harvest.
An exhibition of agricultural tools, agricultural products and folk art will deck the village in traditional
attire that will come alive in a celebration of colour, music, movement and food. Pride of place will, of
course, be given to the olive tree. Maltese ftajjar and bread dressed in freshly pressed olive oil will
be distributed for free tasting.
Olive trees and associated products will also be on sale. An audio visual presentation will feature
olive tree varieties and techniques for their proper cultivation.
Summer Night Music
Saturday 5th September – Jazz Do – Imgarr Harbour, Gozo
Saturday 12th September – Travellers – Marsalforn, Gozo
Saturday 19th September – Novel Band – Xlendi, Gozo
17
October
Notte Bianca
3rd October
Notte Bianca is once again set to light up the cityscape of Valletta, with a spectacular nocturnal celebration of people, culture and arts. The streets and cultural venues in the Maltese capital will play
host to a motley assortment of entertainment.
State palaces and museums will be opening their doors to delight patrons with visual art exhibitions
and theatre performances, while the open-air streets and piazzas will showcase some of the finest
local and international musicians and dancers. Cafes and restaurants will be open until late with
further food stalls and tables occupying the streets.
All of Valletta, from City Gate to Fort St. Elmo, shall come alive on Notte Bianca,
guaranteeing a memorable night that truly holds something for everyone.
Photo - Matthew Mirabelli
18
October
The Mdina Grand Prix
8th-11th October
The Mdina Grand Prix Classic Car Event will be held this year between the 8th October and 11th
October. As late summer beckons the arrival of early autumn, the Mdina street circuit, set in the
idyllic countryside beneath the imposing bastions of the Old Capital City, will be host, for the fourth
consecutive year, the Mdina Grand Prix, promising a magical weekend of classic car racing on the
10th and 11th. A variety of cultural and
other activities will also be organised for the participants and their guests during the days preceding
the races which will include guided tours of Valletta, Mdina and the Three Cities and also a tour of
the sister Island of Gozo.
Birgufest
8th-11th October
Birgu is one of Malta’s oldest and most
historically-important cities. During the Birgu by Candlelight event the
streets are lit up by the gentle glow of thousands of candles. However, Birgufest has developed further,
offering a varied programme of entertainment and events held in both
indoor and outdoor locations.
The historic re-enactments, museums with extended opening hours,
cheaper entrance fees and the opening to the public of other venues
including churches, emphasize the
immense historic value of this city. In addition, food stalls
offering Maltese cuisine and other food, various musical
concerts and various exhibitions, make this event truly
outstanding and a must-visit.
19
October
Malta Military Tattoo
9th-11th October
The Malta Military Tattoo is set to provide the
public with a highly entertaining
atmosphere with precision marching and formations displays and above all good music. The
Tattoo will once again include foreign military
bands and local massed pipes and drums band,
the Malta Police Precision Drill team, the Malta Police Band and the Armed Forces of Malta
Band
Casal Fornaro
17th October
The 9th edition of “Lejl f’Casal Fornaro” will take
place on Saturday, 17th October 2015. This is
an event designed to promote Qormi’s culture,
tradition and folklore,
focusing on the town’s traditional bakeries and its
longstanding association with the Maltese loaf.
The Kummissjoni Żgħażagħ Bastjaniżi, the organising committee, is once again
planning innovative varied cultural, social and
entertaining activities for all
attendees.
Hamrun Chocolate Festival
17th October
The Hamrun Local Council is organizing the 7th edition of the Chocolate Festival in the month of
October 2015 with the participation of master chocolatier Andrew Farrugia who in 2012 in Brussels,
has set a new Guinness World Record for the longest chocolate structure in the world.
With a turn-out of more than twenty-five thousand people last year attending, such Chocolate Festival is a unique event which gives visitors a special opportunity to enjoy a wide range of chocolate
related products.
20
October
Rolex Middle Sea Race
17th-24th October
Malta is proud to host the Rolex Middle Sea yachting race which takes place in the heart of the Mediterranean and covers one of the most beautiful courses in the world. The
offshore exciting race kicks off in the beautiful clear waters off the capital city of
Valletta. Unique for a race of this length in that it starts and finishes in the same place, the 606-mile
route starts in Malta’s magnificent Grand Harbour and also ends there. This race runs by incomparable scenery and is a true challenge to skippers and crews who have to be at their very best to cope
with the often unpredictable and tough conditions.
Pumpkin Festival
25th October
The aim of this feast is to celebrate one of the products that the farmers of Manikata cultivate with
great ability and abundance. One can find various stands with savoury and sweet food, all with the
flavour of pumpkin. One of the most popular items on offer are the pumpkin pies, a typical recipe of
the North West of Malta. This year there will also be new items on the menu, such as the chicken
risotto and pumpkin tortellini. For those with a sweet tooth there will be various cakes and pudding,
all made with
pumpkin.
For all those who like to include pumpkins in their cooking, the Pumpkin Feast is also an opportunity
to buy pumpkins, which can be kept on a window sill all year round and then used for soups, pies
and sweets. The farmers will also be selling fresh local
vegetables on the day.
This is an activity suitable for all the family, where everyone can find something they like, with regards to food and entertainment.
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October
La Traviata opera in Gozo at the Teatru Aurora
17th October
La Traviata - Just as the great master, Giuseppe Verdi
completed Il Trovatore and La Traviata in succession, Gozo’s
Teatru tal-Opra Aurora has taken the bold decision to stage these two
masterpieces in the same sequence. Thus, after the 2014 successful production of Il Trovatore, the Aurora is proudly announcing La Traviata for
October 17th, 2015.
With a plot that sends us back to the heart of 1700’s Paris, La Traviata has
always been considered as the ultimate operatic fashion-parade of music,
drama, scenery and costumes.
La Boheme opera in Gozo at the Teatru Astra
29th & 31st October
La Boheme - If as the saying goes “music has to be played or sung from the heart to the heart”,
this is especially so in the case of Puccini’s all-time great, and the opera lovers’ all-time favourite,
La Boheme. La Boheme is sheer liquid beauty from the word go. The molten passion, which once
released simply flows on and on in highly-charged
passionate singing, is difficult to equate in Italian Opera. La Boheme is all about
beautiful singing. Puccini is well-known for his creative powers when it comes to
composing endearing melodies which sets him firmly in the finest of the Italian tradition, yet sets
him apart in some way. It is his uncanny ability at conjuring the most ravishing of musical phrases
seemingly out of nowhere. La Boheme is the supreme testimony to this particular trait.
It is quintessentially emotional. If there is the ideal way to sing one’s heart out to one’s love than it
is surely the poignant and sweeping ‘O soave fanciulla’.
Teatru Astra will be presenting a vintage production on the 29th and 31st October 2015 - the highlight of the fourteenth edition of Festival Mediterranea.
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October / November
Malta International Choir Festival
29th October-1st November
The festival is open to various categories of
choirs which hail from all over the world. It is expected that the number of
participants this year will be greater than that of
previous years. The festival takes place in various locations, ranging from theatres to churches
and other public
places in Malta and Gozo.
Festival Mediterranea
29th October - 21st November
The Festival Mediterranea is an annual celebration of culture taking place at the very heart of the
Mediterranean, on the history laden island of Gozo.
Mythology has it that the charm of this island aided the most beautiful nymph Calypso to halt Ulysses on his journeys and hair-raising quests, to lull him, lure him away from his travels for seven
mystical years. Gozo’s charm seeks to lure its visitors into a
kaleidoscope of events. Through Festival Mediterranea’s diverse events, visitors can embark on
their very own cultural adventure surfing through the island’s seven
thousand years of known history.
The festival uncovers the island in all its aspects, without eliminating the thrills of
exploration and discovery. Festival Mediterranea offers all that Gozo boasts of in the cultural and
artistic arena. Opera, classical and symphonic music, a wealth of
archaeology and history that is Gozo’s heritage, folklore and cuisine as well as the
creativity of the Gozitan people who are a true and genuine people ... as are their
products. The backdrop to this festival is Gozo’s sheer, natural beauty in warm autumn.
Festival Mediterranea unveils Gozo as a mosaic of Mediterranean civilisation, heritage and art. It is
indeed a showpiece, an opportunity for a break from the routine of
conventional life; a chance to immerse oneself in the mellow world of Gozo’s autumn, and explore
and live the cultural tradition of its 7000 years of history.
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November
Three Palaces – Celebrating Music
2nd-8th November
The sumptuous interiors of the Presidential Palaces provide the backdrop to a music festival featuring a mix of classical, modern and jazz music. ‘The Three Palaces:
Celebrating Music’ brings together a glittering line-up of international artists as well as established
and upcoming local performers, who have all shown excellence in their field.
Malta International Challenge Marathon
20 - 22nd November
This Marathon is a unique one in the Maltese islands as it is spread over 3 consecutive days, measuring a distance of exactly 42.195KM. Each day consists of a marathon in
different parts of the Maltese islands. Day 1 covers a distance of 11.195KM and starts off in the
medieval city of Mdina and runs through the western part of Malta, boasting great panoramic views
of Dingli cliffs. Day 2 takes you down south, to Birzebbugia where a marathon of 6KM takes place.
The final day consists of a 25KM marathon which starts off in the Northern area of
Malta, St Paul’s bay and continues towards Sliema, finishing in Malta’s capital City,
Valletta. The Malta Challenge Marathon is considered as one of Europe’s most
challenging three day marathon.
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November
CHOGM (Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting)
27-29th November
Malta is hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting for a second time, having successfully done so in 2005. As an island state in the Mediterranean Sea, Malta has served throughout
history as a bridge between North Africa and Europe. Now, as the CHOGM host for 2015, Malta
provides a platform for Commonwealth countries to come together to build bridges of cooperation.
Żigużajg 2015
November (TBC)
ŻiguŻajg is an annual International Arts Festival for children and young adults. The main objective of
this festival is to place children and young people at the core of Malta’s creative ecology.
The festival aims to do this by showcasing professional arts specifically designed for children and
young people in various disciplines at a high level of excellence. It does this through the development of a national repertoire of works for children and young people and by creating an accessible
and inclusive artistic programme which increases cultural participation.
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Photo - Elisa Von Brockdorff
December
Bethlehem f’Ghajnsielem
First weekend of December till First weekend of January
Bethlehem f’Għajnsielem offers a naturalistic reproduction of the environment of
Bethlehem as it was 2000 years ago. Upon entering, a map is given to all visitors to
enhance the overall experience. Attractions include the carpenter and blacksmith’s dwellings, the
bakery, an open-air market selling seasonal fruits, fish and a wide
selection of vegetables, a local crafts area promoting traditional skills and folklore, a tavern, a farmhouse with panoramic roof and the Bethlehem Inn. Each dwelling is
inhabited and animated by whole families, to remind everyone that Christmas is a
celebration of the family.
The tavern offers local food and wine while the picnic area offers a unique surrounding for a family
outing on Sundays. Oil lamps will be
distributed for those who want to visit the live crib by night. Fresh water will be flowing along these
structures through a small stream with various water features. The main
attraction is certainly the grotto, with baby Jesus in the caring hands of Mary assisted by Joseph with
a donkey and a cow close by.
Christmas Village (Gozo)
December (TBC)
The Gozitano Agricultural Village will be hosting a series of events and activities throughout the
festive period. The site will be transformed through music, illuminations and food stalls offering an
impressive selection of wines from different countries and different wine regions with over 1000
different wine labels of wine. Other traditional mouth-watering Christmas fare will also be available
from these stalls. Other Gozitano attractions include production of traditional Christmas sweets produced by the Institute of Tourism.
26
December
Feast of the Immaculate Conception, Cospicua (Bormla) 8th
December - Annual Event
The feast of the Immaculate Conception of Our
Lady is regarded as an important feast in Malta’s liturgical calendar, held in the historic town
of Bormla, one of the
famous ‘Three Cities’.
The feast is also one of the few major feasts
celebrated outside the summer months and it
is also a public holiday.
Republic Day - Annual Event
13th December
On the 13th December 1974 the Maltese Constitution was amended and Malta became a Republic,
having Sir Anthony Mamo as its first President.
Activities marking this historic date take place every year, mostly in Valletta.
Euromed Young Sailors Challenge
December (TBC)
The Euromed young sailors challenge is a competitive sailing race where the
protagonists are youngsters under the age of 16. Launched in 2000, the Euromed Malta Championship today enjoys record entries of around 150 participants from 10 different countries. This sailing
challenge is held over 4 days and is open to all boats of the
following classes: - [a] Optimist Class [1a] Open Division [1b] Cadet Division [2]
Beginners Division - Boys and Girls and have only been sailing for 12 months. [b] Laser 4.7 class,
[c] Laser Radial class, [d] Laser Standard Class.
27
December
Cribs & Christmas Art Exhibition
December till beginning January
This grand exhibition of cribs consists of a great
variety of artistic work, all of which are the products of numerous enthusiasts involved in the art of crib
making. These works are will also be accompanied by colourful floral decorations, all of which are
related to the Nativity theme. The long-standing
tradition of crib-making is highlighted in a unique
exhibition of cribs made from various materials and utilizing a
wide range of techniques.
Christmas Day
25th December
Christmas is a highly celebrated festivity in Malta and Gozo, both for its religious
significance as well as its more social aspect. Nativity scenes, cribs displays, carol
services and other events are organised in each locality.
For a very special, spiritual evening, one may join the congregation at St. John’s
Co-Cathedral in Valletta for candlelit carol singing. All churches have a calendar of events, ranging
from the procession of Mary and Joseph, to streets with groups of
children carol singing. Their interiors will be decked out in papal crimson and altars are adorned with
flowers.
Cribs are positively everywhere, from private houses to small chapels. Visiting cribs is a popular
activity at Christmastime and many locals spend time going round touring the various ‘presepju’
displays.
Restaurants, hotels, bars and clubs all have their own entertainment, making for an abundant choice
of what to do and see.
New Year’s Eve in Malta & Gozo
31st December
On New Year’s Eve, Malta and Gozo offer a very diverse entertainment programme which should
suit all kinds of tastes. Activities range from lavish gala nights with the very best Maltese and continental cuisine to top musical acts in and around various venues on the Islands. Certainly, when it
comes to welcoming the New Year, Malta pulls out all the stops, especially thanks to our vibrant and
exciting Mediterranean character.
Photo - Christian Mangion
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January 2016
Valletta International Baroque Festival
16-30th January 2016
The Valletta International Baroque Festival has been conceived purposely as a
celebration of the baroque identity of Valletta. The first Festival was held in January 2013. During
the Festival, Valletta shall resound with music from the baroque era.
More importantly, an international festival like this forthcoming third edition of the Valletta International Baroque Festival will continue to not only confirm and enhance Valletta’s prestige but will
also show Europe and beyond that this small Island in the Mediterranean has over the centuries
played a vital role in European history.
Centring around the Teatru Manoel, one of the oldest working theatres in Europe which also happens to be the only one in Europe that also fulfils the role of a National Theatre, the Festival will
also extend to the magnificence of St John’s Co-Cathedral, the atmospheric Valletta churches, the
splendid Grandmasters’ Palace, the auberges and other baroque edifices.
29
February 2016
Launch of the Happy New Year Chinese Festivities
TBC
The Ministry for Justice, Culture and Local Government, the Embassy of the People’s Republic
of China, the China Cultural Centre and the Valletta Local Council will once again jointly hold the
2015 Happy Chinese New Year in Valletta to share the joy and happiness of the Year-of-Goat
Spring Festival. The Ceremony includes two parades from Merchants Street to Republic Street
and a performance by Guangxi Acrobatics Troupe.
Feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck - Annual Event
10th February
The first of the year’s major feasts is celebrated in the parish church of St. Paul’s
Shipwreck in Valletta and throughout the streets of Malta’s capital city. The feast
commemorates the shipwreck of St Paul on the Maltese Islands, an event which took place in 60 AD
and which is recorded in the Acts of the Apostles. The feast is also a national public holiday.
30
February 2016
Carnival in Valletta, Floriana & Nadur (Gozo)
5-9th February
February brings with it Carnival week, which takes on a traditional flavour,
including extravagantly-coloured floats perched on lorries and children in fancy
costumes. A hive of activities takes place in the cities of Valletta and Floriana, though various
towns and villages across the Island have their own festivities. Carnival in
Nadur, Gozo, takes on a particularly comic and macabre tone with its spontaneous night-time carnival. Traditional carnival sweets are a firm favourite, and the love of good food prevails. Carnival
week is a time to let your hair down and go with the
flow – ideal for those who enjoy a good party.
The above photo was taken at the 2015 Carnival celebrations in Valletta.
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February 2016
Xewkija Carnival
The Xewkija Carnival festivities are growing in popularity, and the local council is
striving to continue this positive trend. This year there will be a number of bands
playing at the festivities as well as traditional music.
A Carnival march will be organized in Triq San Bert and in San Gwann Battista Square. This will
be done by ‘Banda Prekursur’. There will also be a variety of dancing from a number of different
groups, large floats and grotesque masks, together with a
competition for the best float and the best costume.
Xagħra Carnival Festivities
The main Carnival programme in Xaghra includes Carnival band marches by the Victory Philharmonic Society, a performance of the traditional Carnival dance ‘Il-Kumittiva’, a performance by several Gozitan dance groups, Carnival floats and costumes etc. This will be held in Victory Square.
There will also be a varied Carnival programme for children held in Nazzarenu square, including
Carnival competitions for the best costume on show, fun games etc.
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February 2016
Vodafone Malta Marathon
TBC
The Vodafone Malta Marathon allows participants to either participate in the full
marathon (42.2km) or the half-marathon (21.1km), with both marathons passing through countryside and built up areas and finish in the popular town promenade of Sliema.
Both routes include a drop of 200 meters from start to finish. As part of the Half
Marathon, there will also be the Vodafone Malta ‘Endo’ Walkathon where participants may walk,
jog or run at any time. This Marathon which is held in February, is
anticipating another record of participants for the 2015 event.
33
February 2016
The Business Leaders Annual Conference
TBC
Now in the run-up to the sixth edition, the BLM Annual Conference remains true to the original,
straightforward concept: a knowledge-sharing conference for business leaders.
The BLM Annual Conference is where leaders share their experiences with peers in an informal
setting, with some networking and team-building fun thrown in for good
measure.
The BLM Annual Conference registration book is a who’s who of the local business community –
entrepreneurs, decision-makers, influencers, management professionals. People with a passion for
doing business. Real business leaders.
This must-attend event is arguably the most highly anticipated networking event on Malta’s business
calendar. We manage an extraordinary feat every year – we bring even the most elusive, hard-topin-down businesspeople together in the same space for five hours. That’s why we ensure there are
ample networking opportunities in the
conference programme, which means participants are able to make new contacts,
exchange business cards, and discuss opportunities and ideas with peers or potential partners.
34
February 2016
XTerra Triathlon
TBC
For the second consecutive year, Malta will be hosting one of the triathlons in the XTERRA World
Tour. The triathlon will be made up of swimming, cycling and a trail run.
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Recurring Events
In Guardia, Fort St Elmo
Various Sundays throughout the year from February till December
The IN GUARDIA PARADE is a
re-enactment that evokes an
authentic event that took place regularly inside
important military fortifications in Malta and
Gozo. The re-enactment
portrays the inspection of Fort St Elmo by the
Grand Bailiff in charge of military affairs in order to ensure that the fort is in good condition to
defend the Valletta peninsula and the two harbours situated on either side of it.
During the re-enactment, the soldiers and
knights of the fort’s garrison - some 50 re-enactors in all - are kitted out in their finest uniforms
to perform their military drill in order to demonstrate to the Grand Bailiff their state of readiness in the event of a military threat.
The show starts at 11.00 hrs and lasts 45 minutes.
The Saluting Battery
daily throughout the year
One of the main defensive batteries to protect
Valletta and the Grand Harbour, the Saluting
Battery also doubled as the principle ceremonial
gun platform. From here, gun salutes were fired
to honour the arrival or departure of a dignitary
or naval vessel, as well as to mark sunrise, sunset and the passage of midday. This open-air
live-museum is open to the public daily. Gun firings take place daily at 12:00 and 16:00.
www.wirtartna.org
(TBC) - TO BE CONFIRMED, PRECISE DETAILS OF DATES, VENUES OR ARTISTS WERE STILL TO BE CONFIRMED AT THE TIME
OF GOING TO PRINT.
DATES AND EVENTS DETAILS ARE SUBJECT TO
CHANGE. FOR ACCURATE INFORMATION AND LATEST UPDATES PLEASE CONSULT
www.visitmalta.com/events
Updated
Events
Calendar
Photo by Aaron Briffa
THE MALTESE ISLANDS Events Calendar Highlights 2015
www.visitmalta.com/events