Welcome to Gozo's lively summer feasts, where ancient traditions meet modern-day revelry with a splash of local charm! Originally rooted in deep devotion to honor patron saints, these celebrations have evolved into epic community gatherings that bring the whole island together. Centuries ago, Gozitans relied on their patron saints for blessings and protection during tough times. Today, while still steeped in faith, the feasts have transformed into vibrant displays of community spirit and friendly rivalry between villages.
Imagine streets decorated with vibrant banners and shimmering lights, buzzing with locals dressed to impress in their patron's colors. What makes these feasts special isn't just their religious significance, but the festive atmosphere that fills the air. Streets are decked out in confetti, flags flutter overhead like they're auditioning for a parade, and the whole place resonates with music, dance, and the tantalizing smell of local delicacies. Each village tries to outdo the others, showing off its unique cultural flair through elaborate decorations and spirited celebrations.
For visitors, these feasts offer a peek into Gozo's rich heritage and communal spirit. It's a time when locals and tourists alike gather to witness dazzling illuminations, brass bands strutting their stuff through the streets, and fireworks that light up the night sky like a celestial disco. Whether you're captivated by the traditions, enthralled by the cultural spectacle, or just in it for the laughs and good times, a summer trip to Gozo wouldn't be complete without diving into the magic of a village feast. Come along as we explore these extraordinary events, where tradition, festivity, and a healthy dose of Gozitan flair collide in the heart of the Mediterranean!
July
7th – Visitation of Our Lady (Vizitazzjoni tal-Madonna), Għarb
L-Għarb, one of Gozo's most charming villages, boasts a rich history as the island's second oldest parish, established in 1679. The Parish Church and Collegiate Basilica, built in 1699 and consecrated in 1729, is a stunning example of architectural perfection that visitors won't want to miss.
The first weekend of July is when L-Għarb truly lets its hair down for the village festa. The Feast of the Visit of Our Lady to St. Elizabeth is a lively event packed with marches and concerts by the local Viżitazzjoni brass band. Think of it as L-Għarb's version of a summer music festival, but with more saints and fewer mosh pits. Join in the fun and soak up the infectious community spirit, because nothing says celebration like a brass band in full swing!
14th – Our Lady of Perpetual Help (Madonna tas-Sokkors), Kerċem
The parish church of Ta’ Kerċem holds the unique distinction of being the only church in Gozo dedicated to not one, but two saints—Pope St. Gregory the Great and, since August 17, 1885, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, affectionately known in Maltese as “Il-Madonna tas-Sokkors.” This dynamic duo of heavenly protectors ensures that Ta’ Kerċem is twice as blessed!
The village knows how to throw a party, celebrating these saints on the second Sunday of March and the second Sunday of July, with the latter turning into the main event. The Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help is a spectacular affair featuring concerts and lively marches by the local San Girgor (St. Gregory) brass band. Imagine a festival where spiritual devotion meets brass band boogie—it's a celebration you won’t want to miss!
21st – St. George Martyr (San Gorg Martri), Victoria
The third Sunday of July is always festa day in Gozo, marking the island's annual St George’s Day centered around the magnificent St George’s Basilica just off the main square. On this day, the city of Victoria transforms into a festive wonderland, brimming with cheerful crowds and vibrant decorations. As evening falls, the festivities hit their peak with the grand procession led by the La Stella Band, proudly accompanying the stunning statue of St George through the main streets.
Picture this: the basilica's doors swing open, and all eyes are on La Stella as the band kicks off the celebration. The statue of St George emerges to a frenzy of waving palm branches, beautiful banners, and a confetti shower that makes you feel like you’re in a parade scene from a movie. Fireworks light up the sky, and the air is filled with the sounds of beautiful hymns sung by both the band and the ecstatic crowd.
As the procession winds through the streets, the energy is palpable, culminating in a spectacular conclusion around 10:30 PM. Describing the electric atmosphere is nearly impossible—you simply have to experience it to believe it! So, join the revelry, soak in the sights and sounds, and be part of a celebration where tradition meets pure, unbridled joy.
28th – St. Margaret (S. Margarita), Sannat
Sannat is gearing up for a weekend of festivities in honor of its patron saint, Margaret of Antioch, and you’re invited to join the fun! Expect a day packed with lively processions, toe-tapping band music, and dazzling fireworks. The locals’ devotion to St. Margaret dates back to the Middle Ages, with a chapel dedicated to her on the site of the present parish church as early as the 16th century.
The day begins with a High Mass at the Parish Church, setting the tone for the reverent yet joyful celebrations. As evening approaches, the statue of St. Margaret is brought out in a grand procession, parading through the streets of Sannat. Imagine the scene: colorful banners waving, the smell of local delicacies in the air, and a sense of community spirit that’s downright contagious. Don’t miss out on this spirited blend of history, devotion, and pure festive fun—where the past and present dance together in perfect harmony!
August
4th – St. Joseph (San Guzepp), Qala
The Feast of St. Joseph in Qala is the place to be on the first Sunday of August! This lively event isn't just about marching; it features concerts by the local Ite ad Joseph brass band, turning the village into a musical extravaganza.
Qala's journey as a parish began on February 20, 1872. Initially, the parish seat was at the Sanctuary of the Immaculate Conception on the village outskirts. But Dun Salvatore Grima, the ambitious first parish priest, had bigger plans. He set out to build a grand new church right in the village center. The foundation stone was laid on March 19, 1882, and the church was dedicated on May 8, 1904. It wasn't until December 8, 1970, when Pope Blessed Pius IX declared St. Joseph the patron of the Universal Church, that Qala decided to dedicate their parish church to this very popular saint.
St. Joseph is no ordinary saint. According to Christian tradition, he had the ultimate family moment, passing away in the arms of Jesus and Mary. He's the model of pious believers and the patron saint of a happy death—talk about a heavenly retirement plan!
11th – St. Lawrence (San Lawrenz), San Lawrenz
The Feast of St. Laurence in San Lawrenz is a celebration like no other, and it's no wonder—this is the only village in Gozo named after its patron saint! The festa statue of St. Laurence, a masterpiece crafted by Gallard et Fils of Marseilles, made its grand entrance to San Lawrenz on August 4, 1895. Talk about a stylish arrival!
Legend has it that the village started honoring St. Lawrence sometime between 1283 and 1410 during the rule of the Aragons, where the saint was born. The devotion was likely fueled by Aragon and local sailors whose ships regularly traveled to and from the Iberian Peninsula. Just imagine this: sailors swapping stories and perhaps a few saintly souvenirs, sparking a devotion that would last centuries.
The love for St. Laurence grew so strong that one of the village's churches was dedicated to him, and eventually, the parish itself took root around this devotion. So, come join the festivities in San Lawrenz, where history sails in on a wave of tradition, and the celebration is as timeless as the tales of sailors who started it all. It's a festa that's truly saintly—and just a little bit salty!
15th – The Assumption of Our Lady (Santa Marija), Victoria
Santa Marija, celebrated on August 15th, is arguably the biggest and brightest feast of the year on the Maltese Islands. Victoria transforms into a vibrant hub of festivities for the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin, also known as Santa Marija, which takes place right in the city's heart. Not only does this celebration have a deep religious significance, observed in seven different localities, but it also commemorates a challenging period in Malta's turbulent history—one we all hope stays firmly in the past.
Thousands of visitors flock to Victoria for this grand celebration, which features a dizzying array of events. Picture solemn ceremonies mingling with lively band marches, street parties, captivating audio-visual shows, and jaw-dropping fireworks. It's a feast for the senses! Plus, it's a public holiday across the Maltese Islands, so you can bet the locals will be in high spirits (and conveniently out of the office) for the festivities.
Whether you're here for the sacred traditions, the spectacular shows, or just to soak up the joyous atmosphere, Santa Marija in Victoria promises an unforgettable experience. Come join the fun, and don't be surprised if you find yourself dancing in the streets alongside the jubilant locals—after all, it's the celebration of the year!
25th – The Assumption of Our Lady, Żebbuġ
The Feast of Our Lady of Loreto, celebrated on the last Sunday of August, is a must-see event in Żebbuġ. This lively festa not only features spirited marches but also concerts by the local San Ġużepp (St. Joseph) brass band, ensuring the village is filled with joyous music.
Żebbuġ's history as a parish dates back to April 28, 1688, with Dun Franġisk Vella, the first parish priest, being a proud local. The foundation stone of the present church was laid two years later, in 1690, and it was dedicated on September 30, 1726. Today, this church stands as a testament to the villagers' enduring love for their patron saint.
Visitors can explore the parish church in all its splendor, a living monument to the community's devotion. Enjoy the festive tunes of the local wind bands and the youthful chants of local hymns that add to the vibrant atmosphere. And let's not forget the fireworks display—an absolute feast for the eyes that lights up the night sky.
September
1st – Our Lady of Loreto (Madonna ta’ Loreto), Għajnsielem
The parish of Għajnsielem is dedicated to Our Lady of Loreto, and its titular statue comes with a story as fascinating as the feast itself! Back in 1865, when cholera was knocking on everyone's door, Parish Priest Refalo decided it was high time for some divine intervention. Miraculously, Għajnsielem was spared, and the grateful townsfolk wasted no time, donating over 500 scudi faster than you can say "blessing in disguise."
The statue, a masterpiece crafted by Gallard et Fils of Marseilles, was commissioned and completed in less than a year. It arrived in Gozo on October 14, 1866, costing a cool 420 scudi—proving once again that you can't put a price on peace of mind (but if you did, it would be 420 scudi).
3rd - Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Madonna tal-Karmnu), Xlendi
The Feast of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, celebrated on the first Sunday in September, is the epitome of a Maltese ‘festa’—a three-day extravaganza (or more) of pure fun and festivity! Think about hundreds of people in a jolly mood, filling the streets with laughter and excitement. Food stands line the streets, each one trying to outdo the next with delicious offerings. From traditional Maltese nougat to a smorgasbord of sweet delicacies, your taste buds are in for a treat.
The evenings are capped off with spectacular fireworks displays that light up the night sky in an explosion of color, accompanied by the deafening sounds of firecrackers and petards. It’s like the Fourth of July, but with a Mediterranean twist!
But wait, there’s more! Apart from the lively marches and concerts, the festivities also feature the thrilling Ġostra—a diagonal pole slathered with grease, where brave competitors attempt to walk (or slip and slide) their way to the flag at the end to claim victory. It's like a medieval game show that never gets old.
8th – The Nativity of Our Lady (Twelid ta’ Marija), Xagħra
The Feast of the Nativity of Our Lady is a grand celebration that honors Our Lady, the Mother of God, on her birthday, September 8th. This day is extra special because it’s also a national holiday known as Jum il-Vittorja (Victory Day). In the village of Xagħra, the excitement reaches a fever pitch as they celebrate their patron saint, Maria Bambina, at the Church dedicated to the Birth of the Virgin Mary.
Expect more than just your average feast day activities! The festivities include lively marches, concerts by the local Victory brass band, and even horse racing along the streets. Yes, you read that right—horse racing! Imagine the thrill of seeing horses gallop past you on narrow village streets, adding a dash of adrenaline to the celebrations. It’s a birthday bash you won’t want to miss!
15th – Our Lady of Graces, Victoria
Our Lady of Graces – celebrated the first Sunday after September 8th – is your last chance to soak up the summer festa vibes in Victoria! Join us as we bid farewell to the season with an evening march featuring the statue of Our Lady parading through the streets, accompanied by the local band playing lively festive tunes.
It’s the grand finale of the summer, and trust us, you don't want to miss it. Think of it as the ultimate encore of the festa season—complete with all the color, music, and joy that makes these celebrations so unforgettable. So, come discover the beauty, embrace the festivity, and end your summer on a high note in Victoria!
Sources
Annual Feast. (2019, July 6). St George’s Parish. https://www.stgeorge.org.mt/annual-feast/
Church of the Visitation of Our Lady. (2023, August 31). VisitGozo. https://www.visitgozo.com/where-to-go-in-gozo/churches-and-chapels/church-visitation-lady/
Gozo Tourism Association. (2022, September 6). Saints and Festas. islandofgozo.org. https://www.islandofgozo.org/gozo/saints-and-festas/
Times of Malta. (2023, July 22). Sannat celebrates feast of St Margaret. Times of Malta. https://timesofmalta.com/article/sannat-celebrates-feast-st-margaret.1044991
Times of Malta. (2023b, August 5). Qala parish celebrating feast of St Joseph. Times of Malta. https://timesofmalta.com/article/qala-parish-celebrating-feast-st-joseph.1047718
Times of Malta. (2023c, August 19). Żebbuġ celebrates feast of the Assumption. Times of Malta. https://timesofmalta.com/article/zebbug-celebrates-feast-assumption.1050226
The Feast in Vittoriosa. (n.d.). Bandasanlawrenz. https://bandasanlawrenz.com/en/saint-lawrence-2/il-kult-u-l-festa-fil-birgu/
The new Parish Church and Titular Statue of Our Lady of Loreto. (n.d.). Ghajnsielem. https://www.ghajnsielem.com/places/sanctuary.html
