Top Tips for Attending the Best Events in Malta

Hey there! Ready to jump into the exciting world of Malta’s events? Whether you’re into cool music and rich culture or just love soaking up history, Malta has something for everyone. We’ve put together some top tips to help you get the most out of your visit and enjoy every bit of the island’s lively celebrations. From navigating the hottest festivals to diving into local traditions, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and start planning your Malta adventure!

Finding the Best Events

The first step to enjoying any event is, of course, finding it! Luckily for you, Malta is bursting with event listings so you can easily track down the fun. Let’s start with VisitMalta. Their event page is like a treasure map, but instead of gold, it’s packed with everything from music festivals to food fairs. You can filter events by date, category, or popularity. It even provides all the juicy details, like date, time, location, and a link to snag those coveted tickets. Next up, we’ve got Whats on Malta and FOMO. These sites are your friendly neighborhood event guru. It’s got a fantastic lineup of upcoming events, complete with all the info you need and handy links to grab your tickets before they disappear faster than free pizza at a party. 

For music lovers, G7 Events is your VIP pass to the hottest beats in town. As Malta’s biggest music event organizer, they’re your go-to for the best upcoming gigs. Their site is your backstage pass to all the essential details, so you can rock out without missing a beat. And don’t forget ShowsHappening—think of it as your event ticket fairy godmother. It’s the go-to source for snagging tickets to almost any event in Malta. We’ll dive into how to use it like a pro in the next section, but for now, just know it’s got your back when it comes to scoring those elusive tickets.

To stay in the loop on all things happening in Malta, don’t forget to follow VisitMalta, FOMO,  G7 Events, and ShowsHappening on social media. They’re great for real-time updates and insider info. Also, Keep an eye on venues known for hosting fantastic events, like Café del Mar, Aria Complex, and UNO. Following these hotspots will ensure you never miss out on their exciting line-ups. Also, tap into Malta’s local news and lifestyle pages. FreeHour and Lovin Malta often post about upcoming events and can be valuable sources for discovering new things to do. With these follows you'll be ahead of the curve and in the loop. Who knew staying social could be your secret weapon for never missing out on fun?

How to Get Your Tickets

Once you’ve picked out the event you’re excited to attend, the next step is snagging those coveted tickets. Enter ShowsHappening.com—your one-stop shop for nearly every event in Malta. It’s like having a personal ticket concierge, minus the bow tie. Here’s how it works: head over to ShowsHappening and either search or browse through their extensive list of events. Found the one you’re after? Great! Just click on it, select the ticket type you want, and proceed to checkout. You’ll then be prompted to log in or create an account (don’t worry, it’s quicker than a coffee break). Once that’s sorted, just fill in your payment details, and voilà—your ticket is on its way! You’ll even get a handy email confirmation, so you don’t have to worry about losing it in the abyss of your inbox. 

In the rare case that ShowsHappening doesn’t have tickets for the event you’re eyeing (which is as rare as a blue moon), simply hop over to the event’s official website. They should have you covered with tickets and any other details you might need. With this simple process, you’ll be all set to enjoy your event without any ticketing hassles. Happy ticket hunting!

Event Transportation Tips

Now that you’ve scored your tickets, it’s time to tackle the next big question: How do you get to the event? First things first—double-check where the event is located. The event website or your ticket should have that info. No one wants to be the person wandering around Malta looking for a concert in a completely different town!

For getting there, public transport is your best bet. It’s affordable, and Tallinja buses cover most of Malta, so you can practically hop on a bus and be transported almost anywhere on the island. For the lowdown on how this magical transport system works, check out our guide on public transport in Malta. But here’s the catch: Most buses stop running around 11 PM. So, if you’re planning to dance till dawn or catch that late-night comedy show, your options include grabbing a ride with Bolt or Uber—they’re your late-night chariots and won’t cost you a king’s ransom. And for those mega events? Fear not! They often set up special bus routes that run until about 1 AM, so you won’t have to worry about being left high and dry (or stranded in a field somewhere). With these tips, you’ll get to your event with ease—and a smile. Enjoy every moment of the fun!

Know the Schedule

It might sound like a no-brainer, but checking the event schedule is like having a cheat code for your day! Knowing what's happening, where, and when will keep you from wandering around like a lost tourist. Make sure you find out if you need reservations or what time your favorite part of the event starts. This way, you can time your snacks and bathroom breaks perfectly—because no one wants to miss the big finale just because they were waiting in line for a hotdog! With a little planning, you’ll be the event wizard who knows exactly what’s happening and when, ensuring you don’t just attend but truly enjoy every moment.

Surviving the Crowd

Get ready for a crowd extravaganza! Whether it’s in your hotel, on the streets, or at local restaurants, cafes, and pubs, expect to be surrounded by people—especially during those famous festivals and events. It’s going to be bustling, so if you’re rolling with a buddy, stick together. You don’t want to lose your event sidekick in the sea of excited faces!

And if you’re hitting up Malta in the summer, brace yourself for the heat. There’s nothing like sweating it out in 35°C while surrounded by a crowd that makes it feel like 40°C. To survive the sauna-like conditions, stay hydrated and consider investing in a fan or a mini portable cooler. Trust us, you’ll thank yourself later when you’re not melting into the pavement. With a bit of preparation, you’ll be ready to enjoy the event and stay cool as a cucumber—well, as cool as you can be in a summer crowd!

Dress for the Occasion

When it comes to attending events, dressing for the occasion is key—think of it as your personal red carpet moment! Heading to a music festival? Embrace the vibe and go all out—throw on those funky sunglasses and let your style shine. If you’re off to a beer festival (yes, we have those!), don your best beer hat and get ready to raise a toast in style.

For outdoor events, keep an eye on the weather forecast. It’s likely to be hot enough to fry an egg on the pavement, so dress for the heat—cotton or linen is a must to keep you cool and comfy. Planning to be at an all-day event? Check the temperature changes as the sun dips—spoiler alert: in Maltese summer, it’s still hot as an oven. Attending something a bit more formal? Swap out the beer hat for a sharp outfit and pack accordingly. Whether it’s a laid-back festival or a posh gathering, dressing right will ensure you not only look great but feel comfortable too.

Stay Safe and Savvy

Malta is known for its safety and friendly vibe, and pickpockets aren’t exactly a common concern. Still, a little caution goes a long way! We firmly believe most people are genuinely good-hearted, but let’s be honest—there are always a few bad apples who might try to take advantage. Stay sharp and keep your belongings secure with waist belts or bags with tricky zippers. Also, be mindful of your drinks; spiking is becoming more common, so always keep an eye on your beverage.

While it’s tempting to let loose, remember that excessive drinking can make you an easier target. And here’s a tip: avoid confrontations with locals, even though they’re generally friendly. When alcohol flows, tensions can rise, and a simple “sorry” can go a long way in diffusing any potential issues. You don’t need to turn into a paranoid fortress—just stay alert and respectful to ensure you have a great time while staying safe. Enjoy the fun, and remember, a little caution makes for a memorable adventure!

Payment Tips

Before you head out, make sure you’re clued in on what types of payments the food and drink vendors will accept. In Malta, many events run on a voucher system—think of it as festival Monopoly money. You pay a set amount, like 20 euros, and get vouchers to trade for tasty bites and refreshing drinks. Easy peasy! But don't be surprised if some events are still cash or card-friendly. If it’s a strictly cashless event, you can ditch the cash, or at least stash a small emergency stash away. After all, you might run into a vendor who’s still living in the cash-only era or prefers a blend of payment methods.

A little foresight here can save you from awkwardly doing an “I swear I have cash somewhere!” dance. So, check in advance on payment methods, and you’ll be ready to enjoy the event without any payment snags or embarrassing “Oops, I didn’t bring cash” moments!

Know the Local Customs

When you’re out and about, especially at festivals and events, it’s key to be mindful of local customs and laws. Some events in Malta, like the traditional festas, may have their own unique traditions—like sporting the right saint’s colors. It’s not a strict rule, but blending in with the local vibe never hurts! Also, be aware of the region’s laws. For example, can you stroll around with an open container of booze? In some places, it's perfectly fine, while in others, it's a big no-no. And here’s a crucial tip for tourists: public nudity is illegal in Malta. Yes, apparently some folks think sunbathing in the buff is a great idea—so avoid that fashion faux pas! Respecting local customs and knowing the laws will ensure you have a smooth, enjoyable experience. So, do a little homework before you head out and you’ll be set to blend in like a pro and have a great time.

Some of the Best Events in Malta

Now that you’re equipped with all the essential tips for attending events in Malta, let’s dive into some of the island’s must-see annual events you absolutely can’t miss! Here's a curated list of the island's most exciting and culturally rich celebrations:

• Maltese (Gozo, Nadur) Carnival - February
• International Fireworks Festival - May
• International Wine Festival - June
• Malta Jazz Festival - July
• Isle of MTV - July
• Ghaxaq Music Festival - July
• Farsons Beer Festival - July/August
• World Club Dome Island Edition - August
• SummerDaze - August
• Glitch Festival - August
• Birgufest - October
• Notte Bianca - October
• Maltese Festas - all summer

So, grab your party hat, your best dance moves, and maybe even a costume if you’re feeling adventurous. With these events on your radar, you're all set for an epic Maltese adventure. Remember, if you end up dancing with a knight or trying to explain why you’re not in costume at the Carnival, just smile and enjoy the chaos—it’s all part of the fun!