Malta is officially in ‘Lent mode’ as of today, Wednesday, 18 February 2026. The confetti and costumes of Carnival are now packed away, though the weekend gave us at least a glimpse of the fun, before bad weather forced yesterday’s celebrations to be cancelled.

Now, locals are swapping sweets for fasting, reflection, and maybe a few extra good deeds as the 40-day march toward Easter kicks off.

In Valletta, Archbishop Charles Scicluna will lead an evening Mass at St John’s Co-Cathedral at 6:00pm, with the relic of St Francis of Assisi on display for anyone curious to take a peek.

Over in Mosta, the faithful gather at the rotunda for a 6:30pm mass, followed by a penitential pilgrimage with the Way of the Cross through the picturesque streets, a chance to stretch your legs while marking the start of Lent, a reflective way to step into the season together.

Locals are now settling into the 40-day countdown with a mix of reflection, small sacrifices, and anticipation for the big celebrations ahead.