Christmas in Malta is a magical blend of Mediterranean warmth and traditional Catholic celebrations. While December in Malta is mild compared to northern Europe, the island transforms into a festive wonderland with elaborate nativity scenes, twinkling lights, and centuries-old traditions that make it one of Europe's most charming Christmas destinations.
🎄 Christmas Season Timeline
The Christmas season in Malta officially begins on December 8th (Feast of the Immaculate Conception) and continues until Epiphany on January 6th. This extended celebration period offers visitors multiple opportunities to experience Maltese Christmas traditions.
- December 8: Christmas decorations go up, Christmas markets open
- December 24: Christmas Eve with Midnight Mass celebrations
- December 25: Christmas Day - family gatherings and church services
- December 26: St. Stephen's Day and start of major nativity exhibitions
- December 31: New Year's Eve fireworks and celebrations
- January 6: Epiphany marks the end of the Christmas season
🌟 Must-See Christmas Attractions
Bethlehem f'Għajnsielem - Gozo's Living Nativity
Malta's most famous Christmas attraction is the spectacular living nativity scene in Għajnsielem, Gozo. This life-sized recreation of Biblical Bethlehem features over 100 volunteers in period costumes, authentic Middle Eastern settings, and live animals including sheep, donkeys, and camels.
When: December 26 - January 6, 7:00-10:00 PM daily
Cost: €5 adults, children free
Duration: 2-3 hours
Tip: Take the ferry to Gozo early afternoon to explore Victoria before the evening show.
Valletta Christmas Market
St. George's Square in Valletta transforms into a charming Christmas market with wooden chalets selling local crafts, traditional Maltese Christmas sweets, and warm beverages. The backdrop of the Grand Master's Palace makes this one of Europe's most beautiful market settings.
When: December 8 - January 6, 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Highlights: Local honey, Maltese lace, handcrafted jewelry, traditional Christmas cookies
Presepju (Nativity Scenes) Trail
Malta's churches and public spaces showcase elaborate nativity scenes, many handcrafted by local artisans. Notable displays include:
- St. Lawrence Church, Vittoriosa: One of Malta's oldest and most detailed nativity displays
- Mdina Cathedral: Stunning baroque setting with traditional Maltese figures
- Parish churches across Malta: Each village creates unique displays reflecting local traditions
🎭 Christmas Events and Entertainment
Christmas Eve Midnight Mass
Experience the spiritual heart of Maltese Christmas at Midnight Mass in one of Malta's historic churches. St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta offers a particularly spectacular setting with Caravaggio masterpieces illuminated by candlelight.
Recommended Churches:
- St. John's Co-Cathedral, Valletta
- Mdina Cathedral
- Parish churches in traditional villages
Christmas Concerts
The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra performs festive concerts throughout December at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta. These atmospheric performances in the historic Sacra Infermeria feature classical Christmas music and traditional Maltese carols.
New Year's Eve Fireworks
Malta welcomes the New Year with spectacular fireworks over Grand Harbour. The best viewing spots are Upper Barrakka Gardens, the Valletta waterfront, and the Three Cities across the harbor.
🍯 Traditional Maltese Christmas Food
Qaghaq tal-Ghasel (Christmas Honey Rings)
These traditional Christmas treats are sweet pastries filled with treacle, spices, and candied peel, shaped into rings symbolizing eternal love and prosperity. Every Maltese bakery makes them during Christmas season.
Imbuljuta tal-Qastan
A rich hot chocolate drink with chestnuts, traditionally prepared on Christmas Eve and shared by families before attending Midnight Mass. This warming beverage is perfect for Malta's mild but sometimes chilly December evenings.
Christmas Ġbejna
Special aged versions of Malta's traditional goat and sheep cheese, often flavored with herbs and saved for Christmas celebrations. Available at Victoria Market in Gozo and traditional cheese makers across Malta.
🛍️ Christmas Shopping in Malta
Republic Street, Valletta
Malta's main shopping street comes alive during Christmas with festive window displays and special holiday collections. Perfect for finding authentic Maltese gifts including:
- Maltese silver filigree jewelry
- Traditional lace products
- Local pottery and crafts
- Maltese honey and preserves
The Point Shopping Mall, Sliema
Modern shopping center with international brands, plus a special Christmas market during December. Family-friendly with Santa visits and children's workshops.
Victoria Market, Gozo
Traditional market perfect for authentic local gifts including fresh Ġbejna cheese, local honey, handmade crafts, and Christmas specialties. Enhanced Christmas offerings on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
🌡️ Christmas Weather and What to Pack
December in Malta is mild with average temperatures of 15-18°C (59-64°F). While it's much warmer than northern Europe, you'll need:
- Light jacket or warm sweater for evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets
- Umbrella for occasional winter showers
- Layers for temperature changes throughout the day
- Modest clothing for church visits
🚌 Getting Around During Christmas
Public transportation continues during the Christmas period with some schedule adjustments:
- December 25 (Christmas Day): Limited bus services
- January 1 (New Year's Day): Reduced schedules
- Gozo Ferry: Special Christmas schedules - check ahead
- Valletta: Best explored on foot, especially for Christmas events
🎯 Christmas Activities for Families
Christmas Cookie Workshops
Learn to make traditional Qaghaq tal-Ghasel with local families in their homes. These hands-on workshops include recipes to take home and stories about Maltese Christmas traditions.
Christmas Lights Tour
Evening guided tours visiting the most beautifully decorated towns and villages across Malta. Perfect for families wanting to see multiple Christmas displays in one evening.
Santa Visits
Shopping malls and Christmas markets feature Santa visits with photo opportunities for children. The Point Shopping Mall in Sliema offers elaborate Santa's Grotto experiences.
💡 Insider Tips for Christmas in Malta
- Book early: Popular Christmas events and restaurants fill up quickly
- Church etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting for services or nativity scenes
- Language: Many Christmas carols sung in Maltese - English translations often provided
- Photography: Most nativity scenes welcome photos, but check before using flash in churches
- Dining: Many restaurants offer special Christmas menus - book Christmas Day meals well in advance
- Transportation: Plan extra time for travel on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve
🏨 Where to Stay During Christmas
Popular Christmas accommodation areas:
- Valletta: Walking distance to Christmas market and midnight masses
- Sliema/St. Julian's: Modern hotels with easy access to shopping and restaurants
- Mdina area: Historic atmosphere perfect for Christmas ambiance
- Gozo: Stay overnight to fully experience the living nativity scene
🎁 Unique Malta Christmas Gifts to Take Home
- Maltese Cross ornaments: Christmas tree decorations featuring Malta's iconic symbol
- Traditional honey: Local varieties perfect for making Imbuljuta at home
- Maltese lace: Delicate lacework perfect for holiday table settings
- Recipe books: Traditional Maltese Christmas recipes in English
- Religious artifacts: Beautiful crosses and religious items from local artisans
📅 Planning Your Christmas Malta Visit
3-Day Christmas Itinerary
Day 1: Valletta Christmas market, St. John's Co-Cathedral, Upper Barrakka Gardens sunset
Day 2: Mdina and Rabat nativity scenes, traditional lunch, afternoon in Sliema for shopping
Day 3: Gozo day trip including Victoria Market and evening at Bethlehem f'Għajnsielem
5-Day Extended Christmas Experience
Add Christmas Eve Midnight Mass, New Year's Eve fireworks, cooking workshops, and additional time for exploring Christmas lights across different towns.
Christmas in Malta offers a unique blend of Mediterranean charm, deep religious tradition, and warm Maltese hospitality. Whether you're seeking spiritual experiences, family fun, or cultural immersion, Malta's Christmas celebrations provide unforgettable memories in one of Europe's most beautiful settings.