Top Things to do in Malta This December
Discover Malta in December, where historic streets glow with festive lights, seasonal events enliven the islands, and winter walks, markets, and cultural traditions create a warm Mediterranean escape perfect for exploring, relaxing, and enjoying the spirit of the joyful holidays.
Watch a Pantomime
One of the season’s highlights is the island’s beloved pantomimes, with productions such as Ali Baba at Teatru Manoel, Snow White at the Salesian Theatre in Sliema, and Robin Hood at Teatru Astra in Gozo offering plenty of laughter and family-friendly entertainment.
Stroll Through Valletta
A stroll through Valletta is a must-do in December. Begin at Fairyland in Triton Square, where Christmas stalls, lights, and music set the festive mood. From there, wander along Republic Street, beautifully illuminated and ideal for shopping or enjoying the decorations, then continue to Merchant Street for a meal at one of its many restaurants. If you’re out late, make your way down to Strait Street, where bars and cocktail spots create a lively nighttime atmosphere.
Mdina and Rabat at Night
The Silent City’s narrow streets and ancient walls take on a special glow during winter, making it a peaceful and atmospheric place for an evening walk. Nearby in Rabat, the annual Christmas market Natalis Notabilis transforms the area into a charming winter wonderland, combining artisan stalls, food, music, and heritage sites in a beautifully festive setting.
Visit Nativity Cribs
December in Malta is also the perfect time to explore the island’s cherished nativity crib (presepju) traditions. These cribs range from simple home displays to elaborate village installations that blend Maltese culture with biblical storytelling. One of the most impressive is Bethlehem f’ Għajnsielem, a live nativity village in Gozo where volunteers recreate life in Bethlehem 2,000 years ago. Valletta also hosts a variety of traditional and artistic cribs, displayed throughout churches, shop windows, and cultural centers, each adding to the city’s warm Christmas atmosphere.
