Village Feasts in Malta This June, and What to Expect
Nothing captures the spirit of summer in Malta quite like attending a local village feast, or festa. This month, some of the island’s most spectacular celebrations are about to unfold, and they offer a unique look into Maltese culture and traditions.
A Celebration of Saints
Many locals profoundly love their patron saints, and each village hosts a festa in their honour every year. Depending on the number of churches in a locality, a village might celebrate one or two patron saints, with each church dedicated to a different saint. This means some villages have more than one feast annually, ensuring the island is alive with festivity throughout the summer.
The organisation of these festas is often a communal effort, organised by village band clubs in collaboration with parish members and hundreds of volunteers. The competition between band clubs is fierce, particularly in the decoration of the village and its fireworks displays. This rivalry can intensify in villages with two patron saints as each band club strives to outdo the other in honouring their saint!
Zejtun Feast. Photo Credit: Ryan Spiteri
Festive Highlights and Traditions
Feasts are held predominantly over the summer months, (from May to September) and they are marked by joyous celebrations and community coming together. Here are some of the key festas happening this month:
- 2 June: Our Lady of Fatima, Gwardamangia
- 2 June: St. Joseph, Ghaxaq
- 2 June: Corpus Christi, Ghasri, Gozo
- 2 June: St. Philip of Agira, Haz-Zebbug, Malta
- 16 June: Sacred Heart of Jesus, Fontana, Gozo
- 16 June: The Feast of Our Lady of the Lily, Imqabba
- 16 June: St. Catherine, Zejtun
- 23 June: Our Lady of Lourdes, Qrendi
- 23 June: Corpus Christi, Rabat, Malta
- 23 June: St. John the Baptist, Xewkija, Gozo
- 29 June: St. Peter and St. Paul, Mdina
- 29 June: St. Peter and St. Paul, Nadur, Gozo
- 30 June: Immaculate Heart of Mary, Burmarrad
- 30 June: St. George, Qormi
- 30 June: St. Nicholas of Bari, Siggiewi
What to Expect at a Festa
The festivities usually start in the week leading up to the saint’s day. On the day itself, expect a lively morning march. As night falls, the highlight for many is the procession where the statue of the patron saint is carried through the streets and then returned to the church. This moment is met with enthusiastic cheers and applause from the gathered crowd.
The festa atmosphere is electric, with confetti, balloons, and streamers launched from rooftops and balconies. Fireworks light up the sky, and the name of the patron saint is often illuminated across the church steeple.
Tips for Tourists
1. Embrace the Noise and Crowds: Festas are lively and can be pretty loud. If you’re used to a quiet lifestyle, be prepared for a lively, energetic environment.
2. Dress Comfortably: You’ll be spending a lot of time standing or walking, so wear comfortable shoes and light clothing.
3. Join in the Fun: Don’t be shy! Join the locals in their celebrations. The festive spirit is infectious, and you’ll get a deeper appreciation of Maltese culture.
4. Capture the Moment: Bring a camera to capture the stunning decorations, fireworks, and joyous moments.
5. Stay Hydrated: Summer in Malta can be hot, so drink plenty of water.
Visiting a Maltese village festa is really a must-do experience, it offers a unique blend of religious devotion, cultural traditions, and community spirit on the islands. Dive into the celebrations, and you’ll leave with fantastic memories of Malta’s summer magic.
