5 Festivals In Malta To Look Forward To This Winter
Today, December 22, marks the first day of Winter in Malta, and the weather certainly didn’t let us forget that this morning! With the joint coziness and chaos of Christmas on our doorstep, some might think that the island will be all out of festivities by January 1, at least for the rest of the season. However, Malta is a cultural goldmine all year-round! So, here are 5 local festivals to look forward to…
valletta baroque festival
The 12th edition of The Valletta Baroque Festival is taking place from January 11 to January 28, 2024. The yearly event has since mesmerised audiences by showcasing some of the top performers and groups in the baroque music field. It is held in a number of magnificent venues that represent the pinnacle of Baroque architecture in Malta, including St. John’s Co-Cathedral, The Verdala Palace, Palazzo Parisio, and The Manoel Theatre.
This year’s edition promises a stellar lineup and exciting acts. The Valletta Baroque Festival 2024 features a diverse programme of over 30 concerts taking place in over 15 locations across the island. Some of the amazing local and international talents include Robin Pharo, Zefiro Ensemble, Alon Sariel, Holland Baroque with Wu Wei, Lucile Boulanger, Vox Luminis, and Les Contre-Sujets.
citrus festival
Ħal-Lija is once again holding its yearly Citrus Festival at Trasfigurazzjoni Square on January 21. The Citrus Festival is an outdoor event, open to all free of charge There will be an abundance of citrus, honey products, and international and local food available for purchase. In addition, there will be kid-friendly games and entertainment, fruit exhibitions, and vendor booths featuring handcrafted goods from the area.
Last year, there was a mixologist holding talks and sessions on the best ways to incorporate citrus juices into non-alcoholic drink mixes. There was also a chef on hand creating dishes and tastes that feature citrus-based ingredients. All profits will be donated directly to the Ħal-Lija Parish Church’s repair.
Malta Whisky Festival
The Malta Whisky Festival returns for its 6th edition on January 27, 2024. The event will take place at Giardini Lambrosa, which is situated in a picturesque setting of open farmland beneath the skyline of Mdina. For your tasting and enjoyment, the organisers have arranged a wide variety of whisky brands from around the globe.
There will be a whisky to suit every taste, from unusual Japanese blends to classic Scottish whiskies. The festival also promises live music performances to serenade you throughout the tastings, sure to create a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a whisky connoisseur or enjoy a glass every now and then, The Malta Whisky Festival is the ideal place to learn more about whisky and find new favourites.
karnival
Malta’s iconic Karnival festival, a Catholic religious celebration with roots dating back centuries, returns on February 8 until February 13. While Malta isn’t the only country with the Carnival tradition, Maltese people certainly go all out; Brightly coloured floats rest atop of trucks, ready for parade; kids frolicking around in elaborate costumes; young adults partying in Paceville; adults crowding into clubs and bars late at night, still donning their outrageous costumes.
Although many towns and villages throughout the Island have their own unique celebrations, Valletta is the centre of the action. Nadur, Gozo, in particular, attracts a lot of young people who put a bit of a darker spin on the colourful holiday.
Mużika mużika
‘Mużika Mużika – Festival Kanzunetta Maltija’ is an esteemed local musical festival organised by Festivals Malta. From jazz to rock, the competition unites local musicians to celebrate Maltese music of all genres. With the accompaniment of a live orchestra, this Festival is platforming Maltese music for a fourth consecutive year!.
The 20 chosen Semifinalists will be competing for a spot in the Finals on the first day of ‘Mużika Mużika 2024’, March 14. The event will continue on March 24 with an evening of traditional Maltese music, as the 20 semi finalists perform a variety of Maltese hits alongside well-known local vocalists. The festival’s 12 chosen finalists will then square off for the winning title on March 25. Tickets and further information will be released closer to date, but even if you can’t make it in person, the competition is televised!
