Malta's Christmas Markets 2024-2025

Christmas is a jolly time of the year in Malta! The island country can't boast snow and cold weather, but the atmosphere is great throughout the whole archipelago. With the absence of tourist crowds, it's possible to explore all the historical landmarks freely. And Malta's beautiful Christmas markets will definitely solve your holiday shopping problem.

Christmas in the Capital (November 25–December 24, 2024

The Valletta Cultural Agency invites visitors to celebrate the holiday season with its Christmas Programme, bringing festive cheer to the heart of Malta’s capital. Running from November 25 to December 24, 2024, Valletta’s squares and historic streets will sparkle with Christmas lights, vibrant decorations, and the iconic Christmas tree at Freedom Square. Visitors can savor the traditional Imbuljuta tal-Qastan—a warm Maltese drink of roasted chestnuts, cocoa, and spices—while exploring the popular Christmas markets. Highlights include Nativity scenes next to St John’s Cathedral and light projections in St George’s Square, immersing guests in a joyful holiday atmosphere.

Fairyland Santa's City in Valetta (2024 Dates TBA)

Valletta Waterfront turns into a Christmas wonderland every winter. The Christmas Village usually opens around Pjazza Tritoni in early December, offering kids' activities, like puppet shows, face painting, balloon art, music, and inflatables. The enchanted Snow Garden and a 35 ft (10 m) Christmas tree are the main highlights of the Christmas Village. Kids can have their photos with Santa and elves, while adults enjoy some quiet time in waterfront restaurants.

Natalis Notabilis in Rabat (December 6–15, 2024)

Malta’s largest Christmas market, Natalis Notabilis, returns to Rabat this December, promising an expanded experience with extended hours. Natalis Notabilis opens on December 6 at 7 pm and runs daily until late. On weekends, the Christmas Village welcomes visitors from morning until late, while weekday hours from December 9 to 13 are 6 pm until late. Nestled in the narrow, cobbled streets of Rabat’s historic center, the Christmas Village radiates a cozy and festive atmosphere, inviting visitors to shop for unique holiday gifts. Dozens of stalls offer international foods, artisanal crafts, and mulled wine, while Maltese holiday specialties such as Qagħaq tal-Għasel (honey rings) provide a taste of local traditions.

For those interested in authentic Maltese Christmas customs, the Nativity Trail at the Franciscan Convent’s Secret Garden and the Natalis Notabilis Crib Exhibition showcase traditional displays. Live entertainment adds to the festive spirit, with performances on the Palazzo Xara stage and Christmas music filling the Ta’ Giezu Church.

Sliema Christmas Market (Weekends in December)

Bisazza Street in Sliema is a shopping Mecca with many jewelry and vintage stores. On weekends in December, the Christmas market takes over Bisazza with dozens of stalls, offering organic wines, Christmas gifts and decorations. Father Christmas will pay a visit, and you can surely count on the abundance of festive food and warm wine.