The northern village of Mġarr is known across Malta for its strawberries, grown in the surrounding fields and picked at their best right about now. During the festival, that juicy harvest becomes the star of the show. Crates of freshly picked fruit arrive throughout the day, and you can taste them as they are or follow the crowds towards the more creative stalls.

There is no shortage of ways to try them. Think pastries filled with strawberry jam, generous slices of cake, smoothies, juices and even strawberry wine. Some of the more adventurous dishes lean into savoury territory too, with chefs putting their own spin on how the fruit can be used. Two open-air kitchens keep things moving, so there is always something being prepared fresh.

The atmosphere of the event leans more towards a village feast than a tourist attraction. Folk music and traditional dancing bring the main square to life, while artisan stalls line the streets with local crafts and produce. It is easy to spend a few hours simply wandering, eating and soaking it all in. Families tend to settle in for the day, with plenty of activities to keep children busy, from games to small rides and hands-on sessions.

For those keen to add a bit of history into the agnda, the nearby Ta’ Ħaġrat and Skorba temples will be open at a reduced entry price. Both sites are within easy reach and offer a quieter contrast to the buzz of the festival.