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.
Fairyland Santa's City in Valetta (December 8, 2023–January 7, 2024)
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 7–13, 2023)
The largest Christmas market in Malta takes place every December in Rabat. Narrow cobbled streets of Rabat city center turn into a Christmas village with a cozy atmosphere. Shop for some unique Christmas gifts at dozens of stalls, offering a range of foods from different countries, arts and crafts, as well as excellent mulled wine. Make sure to try Maltese holiday specialties: honey rings or Qagħaq tal-Għasel and hot cocoa drink Qastan tal-imbuljuta. To learn more about authentic Maltese Christmas traditions, explore the Nativity Trail at Franciscan Friary’s Secret Garden, as well as the Natalis Notabilis Crib Exhibition. Entertainment includes performances on Palazzo Xara stage and Christmas music in 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.
