The country’s festival variety is as rich as its culture. Music festivals range from youthful pop and electronic to sophisticated jazz, catering to all ages and tastes. Wine festivals offer a refined experience for connoisseurs. Beer festivals provide a family-friendly atmosphere with fun activities and local brews. Of course, one cannot forget the rich cultural aspect of Malta festivals, with traditional festi and the Maltese carnival showcasing the country’s heritage.
An aerial shot of a festival in Malta (credits: viewingmalta.com)
Beyond yearly festivals and cultural activities, the country has also seen countless unforgettable nights staged by internationally renowned artists. From Ed Sheeran to Enrique Iglesias, from the Black Eyed Peas to Lady Gaga to David Guetta, Malta has had no shortage of top-tier stars entertaining locals and visitors alike over the years.
Left: Fireworks during a traditional Maltese festa. Right: A carnival float paraded in Valletta (credits: viewingmalta.com)
Being a small country, you are never far from hitting a festival close by. Traveling to that venue you are itching to add to your itinerary is also a breeze. If you’re looking to add some colour and excitement to your Malta holiday, make sure to check out upcoming festivals before you book! Let the list below both inspire and inform you on some of Malta’s festival highlights throughout the year.
July
Isle of MTV Malta
Isle of MTV Malta is a spectacular annual music festival that transforms the island into a hub of musical talent and celebration. Held steps away from the capital city Valletta, the festival boasts a breathtaking backdrop of historical architecture. Each year, it features a star-studded lineup of international artists, drawing crowds who come to experience unforgettable live performances in a unique outdoor setting. The festival’s combination of stunning visuals and top-tier talent has made it a highlight of Malta’s summer event calendar.
The music at Isle of MTV Malta is diverse and eclectic, focusing on pop, hip-hop, and EDM. Attendees can expect high-energy performances from some of the biggest names in the music industry, ranging from chart-topping pop stars to renowned DJs. The festival is known for its infectious atmosphere, as fans dance and sing along to their favorite hits. With a lineup including a mix of established superstars and emerging talents, there’s always something for everyone.
The best part of it all is that Isle of MTA Malta offers free access to the public! It is no surprise that the festival draws the crowds each year, bringing together locals and tourists for an unforgettable night of entertainment. With an impressive list of past headliners including Lady Gaga, The Black Eyed Peas, Enrique Iglesias, Snoop Dogg, David Guetta and Martin Garrix, make sure to check out next year’s date and artist guest list before booking those flight tickets!
Have a look at the official website for more details.
February
Malta Carnival
Carnival in Malta boasts a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages, making it one of the island’s oldest and most cherished traditions. Originally celebrated as a time of merriment before Lent, Carnival has evolved into a showcase of creativity and cultural expression. Today, it holds great significance for Maltese society, as it reflects the island’s history, folklore, and artistic flair. This lively celebration is a time for people to don elaborate costumes, participate in colorful parades, and engage in spirited revelry, highlighting the community’s sense of unity and joy.
Carnival is held in the week leading up to Ash Wednesday, with the main festivities taking place in February. Valletta, the capital city, becomes the focus of celebrations, offering an array of exciting events. Expect to see dazzling floats adorned with intricate designs, lively street performances, and traditional music filling the air. The streets come alive with people dressed in elaborate costumes, showasing the talents of local artisans. Families and visitors can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, enjoying games, food stalls, and parades. Carnival in Valletta a true highlight of the Maltese cultural calendar, and an event not to be missed if you are on the islands during this time of the year.
August
Glitch Festival
The Glitch Festival in Malta is a highly anticipated electronic music event held in August, attracting fans from around the globe. This festival draws some of the best techno and house music talent whilst providing a stunning backdrop of Malta’s historical venues and inviting coastlines. Famous for its unique immersive experiences, blending cutting-edge sound with visual art installations, Glitch creates an unforgettable festival ambiance that resonates with electronic music enthusiasts.
Spanning over two days, the Glitch Festival features multiple stages, each hosting a curated selection of artists and performers. Previous headliners have included prominent figures in the electronic music scene. With names including Nina Kraviz, Amelie Lens, and Ben Klock, Glitch is fast cementing itself as a highlight on many fan calendars. With a reputation for hosting top-tier talent and an evolving lineaup each year, this festival promises an exhilarating experience for seasoned and fresh enthusiasts alike. Head over to the official website for more information on next year’s edition.
June – August
Wine Festivals
Malta is emerging as a hidden gem in the wine world, with wineries producing distinctive vintages from the island’s unique terroir. Over the summer, Malta’s top wineries host intimate yet lively wine festivals, blending fine wine with local culinary delights against Malta’s scenic backdrops. The Delicata Classic Wine Festival coincides with the grape harvest and spans four days in Valletta’s Upper Barrakka Gardens. Another three-day event is also typically held in Nadur, Gozo shortly afterward. Here, Delicata’s award-winning wines, including semi-sparkling Frizzantes & native Girgentina and Ġellewża, provide a true taste of Malta’s wine culture.
The Marsovin Summer Wine Festival in July is another standout. Held at Valletta’s Hastings Gardens and offering Marsovin’s 30 certified D.O.K. and I.Ġ.T. wines, this is one not to be missed. With over a century of winemaking expertise, Marsovin brings a grand atmosphere to this three-day event, making it Malta’s largest wine festival. Meanwhile, the Malta International Wine Festival, last held in June, showcases 300+ wines from Malta and beyond. Here, wine enthusiasts can meet expert winemakers, enjoy sommelier-led masterclasses, and indulge in curated food pairings.
June – September (Peak Season)
Traditional Festi
The Maltese festa (or festi, in plural) is core to the island’s culture, offering visitors an immersive dive into local traditions. These events, celebrated for centuries, began as religious gatherings to honor each village’s patron saint. Over time, they evolved into community-centered celebrations, embodying a blend of faith and Maltese identity, fostering a deep sense of pride and unity among residents. Today, the Maltese festa has been recognised by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity.
Today, festi retain their religious meaning while also serving as vibrant community events. The village core comes alive during the week of the festa. Streets are closed to transport, food stalls are set up, and streets are decorated with lights and banners. Throughout the day you’ll find activities for families, stalls with traditional Maltese snacks, and band parades culminating in a procession of the saint’s statue through the festive streets.
Left: Land Fireworks (giggifogu) during a Maltese festa. Right: An aerial fireworks show during a festa (credits: viewingmalta.com)
A standout feature of Maltese festi is the impressive display of both ground and aerial fireworks. Showcasing local artisanship and dedication, these shows create a dazzling spectacle that is not to be missed. With its unique mix of history, culture, and festive fun, a Maltese festa is a must-see for anyone wishing to experience the island’s cultural side. Head over to this article for more details on the Maltese festa, including a full calendar by locality.
August
SummerDaze Festival
SummerDaze Malta is a prominent summer music festival that brings global headliners to Malta’s shores in August. Although relatively new, this festival has quickly added a fresh burst of energy to the island’s event calendar. Hosted across venues including Ta’ Qali National Park and nearby beach clubs, the festival offers a lively mix of pop, electronic, and dance music, drawing music lovers from across the globe. With performances by top international DJs and artists, SummerDaze stands out as a highlight of Malta’s summer season.
The festival is more than a concert experience. It creates an engaging, social environment with plenty of opportunities for festival-goers to explore Malta’s scenic beaches, local culinary options, and warm Mediterranean nights. Alongside the main shows, attendees can enjoy pre-parties, afterparties, and beachside events, making it a well-rounded summer celebration. SummerDaze is known for its accessible ticket options and diverse lineup, making it an attractive addition to anyone’s itinerary. Head over to the event’s official website for more details on next year’s schedule and headliners.
July – August
Farsons Beer Festival
The Farsons Beer Festival is a celebrated event held over ten days between July and August. A local mainstay, this festival transforms Ta’ Qali National Park – Malta’s largest national park -into a lively hub of festivities. As Malta’s biggest brewery, Farsons hosts this family-friendly affair, ensuring activities and entertainment for all ages. Local eateries set up stalls, allowing visitors to indulge in a range of cuisines while enjoying a range of beers and ciders.
The festival features multiple stages, including a main stage, a dedicated rock stage and an EDM stage. Importantly, this event provides a platform for talented local performers to showcase their music. This variety ensures a vibrant atmosphere filled with live entertainment, catering to different musical tastes. With its inviting ambiance, delicious food, and an extensive lineup of performances, the beer festival is always one to consider if visiting the islands during this time of year. Head over to the official website for more information.
April – May
International Fireworks Festival
The Malta International Fireworks Festival is a spectacular event held from late April to the beginning of May, taking place over a week. Talented firework teams from around the globe come to compete, showcasing their skills in synchronized shows that merge pyrothecnics, music, and even drone shows. The stunning backdrop of the Maltese coastline enhances the visual delight, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that mesmerizes crowds. Have a look below for a highlight reel and taster of what to expect.
In addition to the stunning fireworks, the festival fosters a lively, family-friendly environment. Local musicians take the stage throughout the event, celebrating Malta’s rich culture and adding to the festive spirit. Visitors can explore a variety of food stalls, offering delicious local dishes that complement the exciting atmosphere. The video below serves as a longer sample of a fireworks exhibition throughout the festival.
The Malta International Fireworks Festival draws thousands of visitors eager to experience the vibrant displays. Families and friends gather to share in the excitement, making it a cherished tradition that brings people together. With the main stage taking place in the grand harbour and freely viewable from Valletta, this event is easily a must-do if you’re on the islands this time of year. It can also serve as an alternative to the traditional festi by taking place outside of peak season. Have a look on the official website to keep up to date on next year’s edition.
October
Notte Bianca
Every year in October, Valletta comes alive for Notte Bianca, a celebration that turns the city into a hub of art and culture. For one night, museums and historical venues open their doors for free, inviting everyone to explore the capital’s rich heritage. From fascinating exhibits to live performances, the event transforms Valletta’s streets, piazzas, and landmarks into lively spaces filled with music, dance, and creativity. As a result, this event ensures a memorable experience for all ages.
Notte Bianca is a family affair, welcoming locals and visitors alike for a night of cultural exploration. Cafés and restaurants extend their hours, providing the perfect opportunity to savor local cuisine while soaking in the atmosphere. Over the evening’s course, Valletta transforms into a playground of artistic expression, guaranteeing that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From the Triton Fountain to Fort St. Elmo, the streets are transformed into a white glow, making it an unmissable event for anyone looking to experience the capital in a different light.
July
Malta Jazz Festival
The Malta Jazz Festival is an annual celebration that brings together jazz enthusiasts from around the world. This event is held in July at stunning outdoor venues in Valletta with a set of live performances under the stars. With some of the largest international names in the Jazz scene in attendance, this festival offers something sophisticated and unique on anyone’s itinerary. Attendees can enjoy a smooth atmosphere as they immerse themselves into sessions offering everything from traditional jazz to contemporary sounds.
In addition to the main performances, the festival often includes workshops, jam sessions, and other interactive events. This variety makes it an inclusive celebration for jazz lovers of all ages. The Malta Jazz Festival not only promotes the art of jazz but also encourages collaboration between musicians, fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange. With its beautiful setting and dynamic lineup, the festival attracts both seasoned jazz aficionados and newcomers alike, making it one to keep an eye on. Have a look here to keep an eye out for future editions of this event.
Bonus: International Visiting Stars
Malta has seen a tremendous rise in visiting pop stars over the past years. This has been fuelled by multiple sell-out crowds over the year, attracting massive audiences and showcasing a clear appetite by both locals and visitors alike.
A shot of Ed Sheeran (top), Raye (bottom left) and Sam Smith (bottom right) performing live in Malta in 2024 (credits: viewingmalta.com)
The overwhelming success of recent performances is bound to attract more international stars in the future. On this note, it would be wise to keep an eye out for upcoming schedules and time your holiday with your favourite star’s visit. Tickets are available for purchase online, and can either be part of a standalone event focusing on that one star, or can also be part of one of the above festivals as part of a broader lineup.
Malta Festivals Wrap-Up: Celebrations Not To Be Missed
This article has provided a tour of Malta’s festival highlights throughout its calendar. We have seen a wide range of festivals, from youthful EDM festivals to traditional festi and carnivals, to family-friendly affairs, to sophisticated wine and jazz festivals, to national affairs attracting some of the top international stars. The variety and frequency of festivals throughout the calendar year provide more than enough opportunity for visitors to take advantage of what Malta has to offer during their visit. Better yet, why not keep an eye out for upcoming festivals and plan your holiday around an activity that catches your eye? The possibilities are endless!
One last note, this article has focused on the most popular events. There is way more happening over the months, usually more limited in scope and with more focus on specific themes. Have a look at VisitMalta’s official website for an up-to-date list of upcoming events.
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