Best time to go to Malta

Festa Ħut (Fish Festival) 2024

Enjoy a day out by the sea in the scenic village of Marsaxlokk and savour the fresh fish, boating in "luzzi," and learn about Festa Ħut

Dates: September 30–October 1

Festa Ħut (Fish Festival)
Festa Ħut (Fish Festival)

Being an island in the Mediterranean, the fishing culture is understandably very popular in Malta. One of the foremost fishing villages of Malta is Marsaxlokk. Of course, it has its own festival celebrating its main product. This is called Mir-Raħal tas-Sajjieda or Festa Ħut. This is a holiday of one of Malta’s oldest trades and a great opportunity to learn the culture and the lore that goes with it.

Mir-Raħal tas-Sajjieda is celebrated on September 11th. The harbour of Marsaxlokk is dotted with "luzzi", traditional and colourful boats painted in bright shades of blue, red, yellow, and green. A pair of eyes depicted on the boat’s bow symbolises power and good health and is believed to offer protection to the fishermen when out at sea. During mornings the "luzzi" are full of freshly caught fish on the way to the local market which opens at 6 a.m. Usually, they sell swordfish, tuna, and lampuki. Twice a day, at 7 a.m. and at 2 p.m. fishing competitions take place around the harbour: competitors try to catch (and then release) the largest number of fish. You can also visit the fish farms with traditional entertainment including għana (music) and folk dancing.The event lasts until 6 p.m.

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin