Public Holidays In Gozo, Malta
The ultimate list of public holidays in Gozo, Malta in 2024.
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Initially, the towering Gothic church in Għajnsielem was constructed in the early 1900s to replace the earlier, smaller parish church. Over time, and despite the many resources generously donated by the villagers themselves, it took more than half a century to complete. Consequently, this long and collective effort has become a source of deep local pride.
Perhaps for this very reason, today the residents of Għajnsielem sing loudly and proudly as they celebrate their revered Lady of Loreto, or, as she is more affectionately known, Ix-Xemx (the Sun).
Among the most iconic feasts in Gozo, the Feast of St John the Baptist in Xewkija undoubtedly stands out—not only for its scale and deep-rooted devotion, but also for its unmistakable visual impact. At the very heart of this celebration, dominating the Gozitan skyline and visible even from across the channel, rises the majestic dome of the Rotunda of Xewkija. Indeed, as the largest church in Gozo, and one of the island’s most recognisable landmarks, the Rotunda has become inseparably linked with Gozo’s village feast tradition. Moreover, dedicated to St John the Baptist, this monumental church was inaugurated in 1678 as the first countryside parish in Gozo. Over time, it has also assumed the important role of spiritual seat of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, widely known as the Knights of Malta.
Each year, this celebrated event ranks among the most anticipated feasts in Gozo, taking place on the Sunday closest to 24 June, the birth date of St John the Baptist. In keeping with authentic Gozitan feast traditions, the streets of Xewkija are lavishly adorned with elaborate pavilions, colourful banners, and ornate festoons. All of these decorations, in turn, further enhance the grandeur of the Rotunda. Meanwhile, throughout the entire week, the village steadily comes alive with religious ceremonies, band marches, and vibrant street celebrations. Together, all these events gradually build momentum, therefore leading to the much-loved traditional Thursday march. On this particular evening, both locals and visitors are treated to spectacular light displays and vibrant fireworks that illuminate the night sky, thus becoming a defining and indispensable element of major feasts in Gozo.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of this feast—unique not only among feasts in Gozo but also throughout the Maltese Islands—is the impressive ceremonial umbrella erected in the village square. Rising to 13 metres in height and spanning 16 metres in width, this striking structure not only provides welcome shade but also serves as a powerful symbol of communal pride and unity. Furthermore, it is beautifully adorned with 20 ornamental flags, each depicting saints, prominent historical figures linked to the parish, and individuals closely associated with the feast of St John the Baptist.
Beyond the main June celebrations, Xewkija’s strong devotion further reinforces its status among the leading feasts in Gozo through a second celebration held towards the end of August. Although lesser-known, this deeply meaningful feast commemorates the martyrdom of St John the Baptist, therefore making him the only saint whose birth and death are both solemnly observed. In the days leading up to this event, the village once again gathers for prayer vigils, horse parades, traditional band music, and additionally, the enjoyment of local Gozitan delicacies. Finally, the festivities draw to a dramatic close with the lighting of a large wood bonfire in front of the Rotunda, thus bringing yet another powerful chapter of Gozo’s rich feast tradition to a memorable and evocative end.
Hailed as one of the oldest Roman Catholic festivities, dating back to the 3rd century AD, Imnarja stands out as one of the most historically significant events in Gozo and across the Maltese Islands. At its very origin, the term Imnarja comes from the Latin luminaria, a pagan festival celebrating light. Over time, this ancient tradition gradually evolved into a Christian feast honouring two saints regarded as the light of the Church: St Peter and St Paul. Consequently, today the feast commemorates the martyrdom of these two apostles. At the same time, it remains one of the most meaningful religious and cultural events in Gozo. In addition, it marks successful spring harvests, the end of the scholastic year for children, and the official beginning of summer. Thus, it seamlessly blends faith, culture, and seasonal celebration, creating a unique and enduring local tradition.
Meanwhile, elsewhere in Malta, particularly around Rabat and Buskett Forest, the festivities take on a distinctly national character. Here, large crowds gather to enjoy one of the country’s most popular traditional celebrations. These events feature musical performances, agricultural exhibitions, horse and donkey races, and an abundance of local wine and food—especially Malta’s iconic rabbit dishes. By contrast, in Nadur the emphasis is noticeably more spiritual. Therefore, Imnarja becomes one of the most solemn religious events in Gozo. This focus is especially fitting, as St Paul—Malta’s patron saint—is revered for bringing Christianity to the islands following his shipwreck. Meanwhile, St Peter, the patron saint of fishermen, holds a particularly cherished place within the local fishing community.
Similarly, as with many other village festas and cultural events in Gozo, the majestic basilica in Nadur, dedicated to St Peter and St Paul, becomes the focal point of a series of religious services marking their feast. In the days leading up to the celebration, traditional processions—sometimes featuring the titular statues carried by village children—together with lively street marches gradually build anticipation. Moreover, highlights include a traditional Imnarja dinner in the town square, offering an evening of local cuisine, singing, and dancing. Furthermore, an orchestral concert staged in front of the church captivates audiences, while at the same time being enhanced by striking 3D projections illuminating the basilica façade. Additionally, a spectacular fireworks display, synchronised with the music, reinforces the festive atmosphere and marks the signature features of this major cultural event in Gozo.
On the morning of 29 June, the spiritual significance of Imnarja reaches its peak with a solemn Pontifical Concelebration led by Gozo’s Bishop, Anton Teuma, together with members of Nadur’s clergy and local religious representatives. Later that day, following evening vespers led by the parish priest, the statues of the two saints are carried through the streets in a deeply devotional procession. All the while, they are accompanied by the harmonious voices of the Jubilate Deo choir. Finally, the celebrations draw to a reverent close with a sacramental blessing upon the return of the titular statues to the Nadur Basilica. Thus, one of the most cherished annual events in Gozo concludes in a dignified and prayerful manner.
Set within the narrow streets of Gozo’s capital, Victoria, a picturesque piazza first draws the eye to the elegant Basilica of St George Martyr. Indeed, it is one of the most iconic religious landmarks associated with major events in Gozo. As the first parish ever established in Victoria, this renowned basilica—often referred to as the “golden church of Gozo”—once served the entire island’s Christian population. Today, however, it continues to play a central role in some of the most important cultural and religious events in Gozo. Moreover, adding to its grandeur, the church’s magnificent interior is adorned with richly detailed frescoes covering the walls and ceiling. At the same time, no fewer than eight side chapels branch out from the main nave, further enhancing its architectural and spiritual depth.
Each year, the third Sunday in July marks the Feast of St George Martyr, therefore becoming one of the most prominent summer events in Gozo. Meanwhile, a separate commemoration of St George’s Day on 23 April is observed both locally and internationally. Notably, this July feast is distinctive in two ways. On the one hand, it has evolved with the times. On the other hand, it preserves the traditional liturgical structure within the Basilica. Consequently, the celebrations include solemn Eucharistic services, vespers, the veneration of St George’s reliquary, engaging sermons, and orchestral recitals. In addition, daily processions honour the saint, during which statues of St George are carried through Victoria’s streets, all the while being accompanied by sacred hymns performed by the La Stella Band. Altogether, these events combine tradition and devotion, thus making the Feast of St George one of the most evocative and cherished religious celebrations in Gozo.
Beyond its sacred observances, the summer feast of St George also unfolds as one of the most vibrant social and cultural events in Gozo. Furthermore, it extends over three weeks of festive outdoor activities. Throughout this period, traditional horse races along the main streets, energetic band marches, and musical performances take place. Meanwhile, the joyful pealing of church bells and bustling crowds come together to create a dynamic atmosphere. This lively setting is further complemented by classic nougat stalls lining the roads. Ultimately, the festivities reach a dramatic climax with breathtaking ground fireworks and thunderous petards, thereby reaffirming the Feast of St George Martyr as one of the most spectacular and eagerly anticipated annual events in Gozo.
It is quite evident that Maltese and Gozitans cherish every occasion that honours their beloved Mother of God. This devotion is especially apparent on the midsummer day marking her Assumption. Each year, the popular feast on 15 August is celebrated in no fewer than eight parishes across the two main islands—namely Attard, Birkirkara, Għaxaq, Gudja, Mosta, Mqabba, Qrendi, and Gozo’s capital, Victoria. Moreover, beyond its religious significance, the day is eagerly anticipated by many locals. For instance, businesses traditionally shut down operations for the entire week to grant their workforce a well-deserved summer break. As a result, many families flock to Gozo for their annual staycation, combining devotion with leisure.
However, this date does more than honour Mary’s ascent into Heaven. It is also deeply intertwined with Malta’s history towards the end of the Second World War. In August 1942, when the islands faced the real possibility of surrender due to a critical shortage of supplies, the population turned fervently to prayer. They prayed for the safe arrival of a desperately needed fleet of supply ships. Despite enduring heavy enemy attacks, the convoy pressed on. Ultimately, during the week of Santa Marija, part of the battered fleet sailed into Grand Harbour—severely damaged, yet still carrying vital food and fuel supplies. Consequently, this moment was widely regarded as a miraculous answer to the people’s prayers.
Long before these wartime events, however, the date honouring Our Lady had already been observed in Gozo since the early 1700s. Therefore, the Cathedral within Victoria’s medieval Citadel remains the focal point of the Santa Marija festivities. Here, the beautifully adorned statue is carried high on parishioners’ shoulders in a solemn street procession led by Gozo’s Bishop. Meanwhile, astounding pyrotechnic displays illuminate the skies as the statue exits and later re-enters the church. Finally, the emotional climax is reached when the crowds collectively carry the statue up the Cathedral steps, returning the revered figure to its rightful place.
In addition to the religious celebrations, a wide range of spectacular events is organised for the thousands of locals attending this major feast. These include traditional horse races along the main street of the capital and an agricultural fair set within the picturesque gardens of Villa Rundle. Furthermore, concerts and band marches by the Leone Philharmonic Society brass band, as well as various street celebrations and solemn rituals, are held. Altogether, these activities reaffirm Santa Marija as one of the most cherished and widely attended feasts in Gozo and Malta, thus blending faith, culture, and community celebration.
The towering Gothic church in Ghajnsielem was constructed in the early 1900s to replace the preceding smaller parish. Although it took over half a century to complete, despite the multiple resources generously donated by the villagers themselves, today Ghajnsielem residents sing loud and proud as they commemorate their revered Lady of Loreto. Moreover, she is affectionately known as Ix-Xemx, or “the Sun,” reflecting the deep devotion of the local community.
Each year, the Ghajnsielem feast in Gozo occurs on the last Sunday in August; however, festivities actually commence over a week earlier. During this time, the packed daily timetable alternates obligatory church ceremonies with family events, outdoor parties, and several street processions. Meanwhile, the crowds proudly wear identical blue t-shirts designed with images of Our Lady. In addition, the popular song ‘Viva ix-Xemx’ and other favourites are chanted in unison, accompanied by the brass band.
Furthermore, the Friday night Balzunetta features an amusing tradition dating back to the 1980s, when some youths turned up dressed in the same material. Subsequently, the idea was adopted by the entire village and eventually became a fundraising initiative to cover annual expenses. Each summer, the organising body, L-Għaqda tal-Armar, procures a roll of fabric with a new pattern. Thereafter, villagers buy pieces and create outfits or accessories. Some sew dresses, tops, shorts, or waistcoats, while others make hairbands, bandanas, or even cute neck scarves for their dogs!
Additionally, this is only one of the feast’s unique characteristics. For instance, to stay hydrated in style, the Għajnsilmiżi poke straws into large watermelons infused with their favourite cocktails, ensuring that they do not miss a single second of entertainment while queuing at the bar.
Finally, when the Friday procession arrives at the church square, the statue of the Madonna of Loreto, patron saint of aviation, is not lifted onto its pedestal in the usual way. Instead, it is attached to one end of a zip-line extending across the parvis. As a result, the statue slides slowly over the heads of enthusiastic parishioners while they serenade their beloved Xemx. To complement this aviation theme, fire-planes shoot along the same path, and simultaneously, colourful fireworks boom in the sky.
The most befitting way of honouring Our Lady surely includes a festa dedicated to her birthday, namely 8 September. However, this date also coincides with the national holiday Il-Vitorja, which commemorates the end of two significant and bloody conflicts that severely affected the Maltese islands: the Great Siege of 1565 and the Second World War attacks in the 1940s. Consequently, the September feast remembers not only Mary’s birth but also the days when the islands were reborn. Thus, it honours her both as Il-Bambina—the Little Newborn Baby—and as Our Lady of Victory, whom the Maltese sought in prayer during times of crisis.
In addition, the traditional and cultural aspects of this feast are evident in the fiercely competitive regatta boat races hosted each year in Valletta’s Grand Harbour. Moreover, religious feasts are held in various towns, including the Gozitan village of Xaghra, whose church is dedicated to the Marija Bambina. During the days leading up to the feast, daily Masses and intercessory prayers accompany a novena, with each day dedicated to specific intentions such as priests, vocations, social organisations, youths, the sick, and parish ministries.
Furthermore, musical performances by choirs, orchestras, and soloists accompany outdoor festivities, which include band marches, bingo in the square, traditional outdoor dinners, and horse races along the main road between Xaghra and Victoria. In addition, spectacular aerial fireworks add a dramatic and celebratory flair to the events. Finally, on the feast day itself, the Xaghra Historical Re-Enactment Organisation, together with the local council, presents scenes from the Great Siege and World War II in the main square. Afterwards, wreaths are laid at the commemorative monument, the Maltese National Anthem is performed, and the titular statue leads the procession, thereby rounding off the celebrations.
Although this feast risks being overshadowed by the numerous Christmas activities competing for attention throughout December, the 8th of the month is nevertheless marked in a special way. Indeed, it commemorates the day when Our Lady was conceived in a pure and sinless state—a dogma formally proclaimed by Pope Pius IX in 1854 as highly crucial to Roman Catholicism. Accordingly, in Gozo, both Victoria and Qala observe this cherished day. Furthermore, it is also one of the much-awaited public holidays in the final month of the year.
In addition, the island’s capital, Victoria, organises several commemorative festivities. For instance, Holy Masses are celebrated in the church dedicated to St Francis of Assisi, both on the eve and on the day itself. Moreover, the concelebrated Masses involve the Gozitan Bishop, Franciscan friars, and other clergy members, while choirs provide musical accompaniment to the devout rituals and prayers. The main highlight, however, is the parading of the beautifully carved wooden statue of the Blessed Virgin—crafted by local sculptor Salvatore Psaila in 1848—through the streets.
Meanwhile, in Qala, although not the main parish, a humble but intricately decorated chapel dedicated to the Immaculate Conception stands on the side of a country road overlooking the other islands. Built in 1575, it is one of Gozo’s earliest Marian shrines and even served as Qala’s parish until the late 1800s. Despite its smaller size, the December festa is still celebrated with the same pomp and devotion found in other localities. Additionally, the chapel’s statue, originating from Marseilles and sculpted by Gallard et Fils in 1887, takes centre stage.
Furthermore, one unusual activity linked to the Qala feast is a yearly motorcade in the early afternoon, which begins at the notable Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary just outside Għarb and continues all the way to the Qala chapel. Before setting off, the parish priest blesses each motorcyclist and driver, thereby initiating this unique pilgrimage in honour of Our Lady Immaculate. Finally, Masses conducted by the Bishop and the parish priest are followed by Eucharistic rites and prayers, after which vibrant fireworks close the religious ceremonies with dramatic flair.
So, come join in the fun atmosphere and joyous merrymaking at one of these festive occasions that make summers in Gozo truly remarkable—along with a sprinkling of jubilation during the other seasons too! Check the FULL LIST of feasts on our site.
Unlock the secrets of every city with insider tips, hidden gems, and must-see attractions. Your ultimate travel companion awaits—explore smarter, travel better!
The ultimate list of public holidays in Gozo, Malta in 2024.
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