Malta Carnival 2025

The Malta Carnival (Il-Karnival Ta’ Malta) is a centuries-old celebration that showcases the island's rich cultural heritage and festive spirit. Known for its vibrant parades, elaborate costumes, and infectious energy, this annual event brings locals and visitors together in a joyous atmosphere. Held during the week leading up to Lent, typically in February or March, the carnival has become one of Malta’s most cherished traditions, blending historical authenticity with modern-day revelry.

The festivities span across the Maltese islands, with key events taking place in the capital city of Valletta, the island of Gozo, and other towns and villages. Each location adds its unique flavor to the celebration, offering a variety of experiences.

Gozo Carnival

Gozo, Malta's sister island, hosts spirited celebrations, particularly in the town of Nadur. Known for its quirky and more spontaneous carnival, the Nadur festivities often feature satirical costumes and impromptu street performances, attracting those looking for a more unconventional experience. The island of Floriana and towns across Malta also contribute to the festive atmosphere, with smaller parades, children’s activities, and community events that reflect the unique character of each locality.

Carnival in Valetta

In Valletta, the heart of the carnival, Republic Street and the surrounding areas come alive with vibrant floats, music, and dance performances. This UNESCO World Heritage Site provides a stunning backdrop for the main parades and competitions, where participants don elaborate costumes and masks, dazzling the crowds with their creativity and craftsmanship.

Thousands gather for the parades with flamboyant floats, music bands, and street parties with revelers in bright costumes and grotesque masks. The parades begin in the morning and continue into the night. Anyone is allowed to wear costume, cover their face with a mask, and roam around the streets during the Carnival.

One of the highlights is the King Carnival Float, a massive, elaborately designed float that leads the procession through Valletta. Meanwhile, traditional dances like the Parata—a re-enactment of a victory over the Turks—add a historical touch to the celebrations.

Shrove Tuesday & Carnival Gran Finale

Each day of the festival is special, with its unique morning and afternoon program of events, catering to all tastes and needs. But the culmination of the revelry falls on Shrove Tuesday, which is the last day of the Carnival. Brace yourself for a dance show and other festivities at St George’s Square & Republic Street, Valletta, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. The Carnival Gran Finale with carnival floats and other carnivalesque items makes its way along St. Anne’s Street from 6 pm onwards.

History of Malta Carnival

The Carnival in Malta dates back more than six centuries. The Knights of the Order of St. John were the pioneers of the celebration and introduced strength competitions and carnival balls to Maltese traditions, which have survived till modern times. The carnival continues to honor its roots with traditional elements such as grotesque masks, intricate papier-mâché floats, and ceremonial dances. The celebration withstood the test of time and today enjoys massive popularity with locals and an increasing reputation with foreigners.

Carnival food

No Maltese Carnival experience would be complete without indulging in its traditional foods, particularly the beloved Prinjolata. This towering dessert is a feast for the eyes and taste buds, made from a mix of sponge cake, crushed biscuits, pine nuts, almonds, and glacé cherries, all bound together with sweetened condensed milk and covered in cream. Topped with drizzles of chocolate and more cherries, Prinjolata is a festive treat that embodies the indulgent spirit of the season. Alongside this iconic dessert, carnival stalls often serve a variety of street foods, such as qarabaghli mimli (stuffed zucchini) and pastizzi (savory pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas), ensuring visitors can enjoy both sweet and savory flavors while reveling in the celebrations