Hey there, fellow adventurers! If you’re itching to soak up some Maltese magic and dive into the island’s most unforgettable experiences, you’re in the right place. Malta isn’t just about stunning coastlines and ancient ruins; it's also bursting with vibrant annual events that bring the local culture to life. From dazzling festas to lively festivals, there's a celebration for every taste and every month of the year. So, buckle up as we take you on a tour of the best annual events Malta has to offer. Whether you're a seasoned local or a curious traveler, these events are sure to make your Maltese adventure unforgettable. Let’s dive in and discover what makes Malta’s calendar truly sparkle!
Maltese Carnival - February
Carnival (il-Karnival ta' Malta) has been a Maltese tradition for nearly five centuries, turning the island into a party paradise since the mid-15th century. Held in February, it’s a riot of masked balls, wild costumes, and epic late-night bashes. Valletta and Floriana are the main party hubs, but you’ll also find spontaneous celebrations in villages where things can get delightfully quirky—think cross-dressing ghosts and political figures at the Nadur Carnival, or vintage mask-wearing at the Għaxaq Carnival. Don’t miss out on treats like perlini (sugar-coated almonds) and prinjolata, a deliciously towering cake that’s as over-the-top as the festivities.
Fireworks Festival - April
Picture this: under Malta’s starry skies, the night explodes with dazzling fireworks at the Malta International Fireworks Festival. Each night outshines the last, culminating in a spectacular grand finale. But it’s not just about pretty lights—this festival hosts a fierce Pyromusical competition. Fireworks dance to music, creating synchronized shows that leave you breathless. The best displays earn top honors, bragging rights, and endless Instagram glory. Don't miss the chance to witness a night where the sky comes alive with color and rhythm!
International Wine Festival - June
Get ready to uncork some fun at the Malta International Wine Festival, one of the island’s top wine events, set in the picturesque Argotti Gardens in Floriana. This summer extravaganza promises a delightful mix of wine education, entertainment, and top-notch sips from Malta and around the globe. You’ll get to learn the art of winemaking, taste an impressive array of wines, and chat with some seriously knowledgeable winemakers. Plus, enjoy gourmet food and live music in a setting so beautiful, it might just make your wine taste even better.
Malta Jazz Festival - July
The Malta Jazz Festival is your go-to event for jazz that doesn’t come with a side of pop or polka. In a world where festivals often mix in a few too many non-jazz elements, Malta’s festival keeps it real, featuring a stellar line-up of world-class jazz musicians who know their sax from their elbow. Celebrated globally as a “true” jazz festival, it offers a dazzling array of jazz in all its forms—without any compromise. So, grab your favorite jazz hat and prepare for an event where the only thing watered down is the ice in your cocktail!
Isle of MTV - July
Isle of MTV is your annual excuse to dance like nobody’s watching! Organized by MTV (yes, the same folks behind your favorite music videos), this festival has been rocking Malta since 2007. Now celebrating its 15th year, it’s Europe’s largest free festival, drawing tens of thousands of party animals who know how to get down. This isn’t just any festival—previous years have seen legends like Lady Gaga, Snoop Dogg, and DJ Snake light up the stage. Want to be part of the next big night? Grab your tickets at isleofmtv.com. The one-night extravaganza kicks off at 6 PM and wraps up before midnight—just enough time to catch some Z’s before your next adventure.
Ghaxaq Music Festival - July
Ready for a night of incredible tunes and good vibes? Welcome to the Ghaxaq Music Festival! This isn't just any music festival—it's the first of its kind in Għaxaq, featuring the best local and international artists. It's like the United Nations of music but with way better snacks. This annual tradition is unmissable, so mark your calendar and get ready to rock out. And here's the best part: entrance is by donation at the gate. That’s right, your pocket change is your ticket to a night of unforgettable live music. Plus, your donation supports the Embrace Diversity Organisation. You get an epic evening, and they get to keep doing amazing work. Win-win!
Farsons Beer Festival - July
The Farsons Beer Festival! This 10-night outdoor extravaganza is the island’s largest music event and the perfect excuse to sample over 30 award-winning beers—both local and imported. Cheers to that! With two dynamic stages, you’ll have plenty of tunes to dance to while you sip your brews. And if you’re worried about getting thirsty, don’t be—grab a limited-edition festival mug and reusable cups to keep the party eco-friendly and your beer cold. The festival’s got something for everyone: from the Main Stage to Rock Stage, and Casa Electronica, plus an Artisan Market and a food court that’s perfect for soaking up all those brews.
World Club Dome - August
World Club Dome Island Edition is DJ Mag’s top 10 festival, and it's no wonder why! Every August, Malta becomes the ultimate dance playground for three sun-drenched days. Picture this: pool parties where you can show off your best synchronized swim moves, hotel takeovers that might leave you wondering if you accidentally booked a room on the dance floor, and club nights that’ll have you dancing until you think your feet might need a vacation of their own. Add in boat parties, multiple stages, and sunset parties, and you’ve got a recipe for a festival so epic, you might need a nap just from reading about it!
SummerDaze - August
SummerDaze Malta is the dance music festival you didn’t know you needed—until now! Every August, this Mediterranean bash turns up the heat with a lineup of EDM, pop, and house music legends, alongside a squad of world-renowned DJs who know how to keep the party going. Prepare for a summer of epic beats and dance moves that might make you question your own coordination. Just remember: sunscreen and hydration are key, because you'll be dancing so hard you’ll forget you’re under the blazing Maltese sun!
Glitch Festival - August
Glitch Festival is your ticket to an electronic music extravaganza featuring over 70 artists from every corner of the electronic music universe. Imagine a musical buffet with everything from debut performances to your favorite Glitch classics and rising stars ready to steal the show. With 8+ stages to choose from, you might need a map and a GPS just to find your way around. For four days, you'll be on a non-stop dance journey, guided by industry giants, master selectors, and live acts that could make even your grandma bust a move.
Birgu Fest - October
Are you ready for the ultimate candlelit extravaganza? Birgu Fest is here to light up Vittoriosa's medieval streets. Organized by the Birgu Local Council, this event is one of Malta's most beautiful and photographed. For two nights on the second weekend of October, Birgu’s streets will switch off their lights and glow with thousands of candles, creating a magical atmosphere. Enjoy concerts in churches, explore museums and historical sites at a low fare, savor traditional food, and catch a short film festival. Plus, an artisan market offers unique treasures. Join this fest for an unforgettable night of music, light, and magic. It's going to be lit—literally!
Notte Bianca - October
Get ready to experience the arts like never before at Notte Bianca, one of Malta’s biggest annual festivals, brought to you by Festivals Malta! Every first Saturday of October, Valletta’s cityscape transforms into a dazzling stage for an epic celebration of arts and culture—all for free! Picture this: Valletta’s streets, piazzas, churches, state palaces, and museums become lively venues for an explosion of live performances and concerts. Even the local cafés and restaurants join in by extending their hours, so you can grab a bite or a drink while soaking in the festive atmosphere. From City Gate to Fort St. Elmo, Valletta lights up with energy and creativity, guaranteeing a night full of surprises and something for everyone.
Maltese Festas - all summer
Want to dive into Malta’s local culture? There’s no better place than a Maltese village festa! These vibrant celebrations, honoring various patron saints, turn every village into a party zone. Each village has its own saint or two—because why settle for one when you can have a saintly double feature? The local band clubs, sometimes joined by the parish, go all out with decorations and fireworks, often turning the competition into a full-blown show-down. Picture this: rival bands battling for the title of "Best Festa of the Year," with the prize being bragging rights and maybe a trophy shaped like a saint. Held over the summer, these fests are packed with merrymaking, traditions, and enough local flavor to make your heart—and your Instagram feed—burst with joy. If you're in Gozo, don’t miss out—check out our blog about the best festas on the island. Grab your party hat and join the fun!
Tip!
Ready to conquer Malta's epic events like a pro? Dive into our blog for the ultimate tips on attending the island’s best events. With our advice, you’ll be 100% prepped to tackle everything from dazzling fireworks to mouthwatering local delicacies. So, grab your excitement and check out our blog—you’re about to become Malta’s event expert!
Sources
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Glitch Festival 2024. (2024, May 8). Glitch Festival. https://www.glitchfestival.com/
Isle of MTV Malta 2024. (n.d.). Isle of MTV Global. https://www.isleofmtv.com/
Lansink, E. (2024, February 13). The Maltese Festa or Village Feast: A religious event in Malta. MaltaUncovered.com. https://www.maltauncovered.com/culture/malta-festa-village-feast/
Malta International Wine Festival. (n.d.). Winefestival. https://www.maltainternationalwinefestival.com/
Notte Bianca. (n.d.). Festivals Malta. https://www.festivals.mt/nb
SummerDaze Festival. (2024, July 19). SummerDaze Festival 2024. https://summerdazemalta.com/
The Malta International Fireworks Festival. (n.d.). Fireworks-festival. https://www.maltafireworksfestival.com/
Whitehead, M. (2023, October 12). Birgu Fest. Birgu Candlelight Company. https://www.birgucandles.mt/blogs/relax-with-wax/birgu-fest-2023
Wikipedia contributors. (2024, May 31). Maltese carnival. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maltese_Carnival
World Club Dome Island Edition. (n.d.). https://worldclubdomemalta.com/
