Christmas in Malta 2024

Christmas in Malta is known as "Il-Milied" and is celebrated on December 25th. In December, the image of Maltese cities and villages rapidly changes. Countless festive lights illuminate streets and show window Christmas nativity scenes appear as well. The holiday season is one of the best times to visit Malta and celebrate Christmas while not being wrapped up in tons of warm clothes. There, the temperature in winter ranges from 50 to 77 °F (10 to 25 °C).

Where to Celebrate Christmas in Malta

Most Maltese are zealous Catholics, so the mandatory program of Christmas holidays for the majority of them includes a solemn mass in one of the main temples of Malta, which lasts all night. The main event is held in the Metropolitan Cathedral of St. John in the capital of Malta. The center for the more secular entertainment, such as evening promenades, shopping, and dining out, is Republic Street in Valletta. Pjazza Tritoni hosts a vibrant Valetta Christmas Market filled with festive crafts from local vendors, delicious food, and holiday music.

On Christmas Day, on some stages, for example, at Teatru Manoel, artists show various performances for all ages, from stories of nativity to Christmas pantomimes of the famous fairytales.

Christmas Concert by the Sliema Band (December 20, 2024)

Filled to the brim with holiday music, the Sliema Christmas Concert is another event worth experiencing in Malta. The performance is conducted by the renowned Mro Lesley Tabone, together with the Romina Vella's Children's Choir. Some of the compositions played during this festive concert include "Stranger on the Shore," "O Holy Night," "Hey Jude," and "Winter Wonderland." The event is set to span from 8 to 9 pm at the Parish Church of Sacro Cuor. The town is also known for its vibrant Christmas lights, spread all across the streets of Sliema.

Maltese Christmas Traditions

The Maltese people celebrate this day with family. They assemble in one house for lunch and stay there till evening. Christmas lunch in Malta traditionally consists of ''dundjan'' (turkey), "pudina tal-Milied" (Christmas pudding), and Qaghaq ta' l-Ghasel, a traditional Christmas dessert.