Heading to Żejtun or Marsaxlokk for San Girgor celebrations? Here are some tips on getting there
Today is a special day for the two neighbouring villages of Żejtun and Marsaxlokk, as they celebrate the centuries-old feast of St Gregory, or better known locally as ‘San Girgor’.
Its origins date back to the time of the plague, when the community vowed that if they were spared from the disease, they would make a yearly pilgrimage to the church now known as St Gregory’s in Żejtun, though it is actually dedicated to St Catherine of Alexandria.
This year, the traditional walk will take place in the evening due to the Jubilee, starting from the Church of Our Lady of Mercy (Bir id-Deheb) and ending at St Gregory’s Church itself.
In the past, many would head down to Marsaxlokk after the pilgrimage to relax by the sea. This tradition lives on – even those who don’t take part in the walk often choose to spend the day there.
From early morning, the waterfront comes alive with food and traditional sweets stalls, cold drinks, and tombola games that draw in big crowds. Others take the opportunity to simply unwind in the sun and enjoy the sound of the waves.
Both villages will also see various activities and lots of entertainment throughout the day – from the customary first swim of the year to traditional ‘għana’ singing in the village square of Marsaxlokk.
Planning on celebrating with the crowds? Here are some tips on getting there and back:
By Bus
Extra bus trips have been added to the usual schedule to accommodate for the influx of people trying to get to the festa fun. Here they are:
Route 85 (from Valletta through Żejtun to Marsaxlokk) buses will be departing at: 09:20, 09:40, 10:00, 10:20, 10:40, 11:00, 11:20 and 11:40.
Route TD10 (from Marsaxlokk through Żejtun to Valletta) buses will be departing at: 13:20, 13:40, 14:20, 14:40, 15:20, 15:40 and 16:20.
By Car
Due to these celebrations, traffic congestion is expected in Triq iż-Żejtun (leading from Żejtun to Marsaxlokk) and Triq Santa Katerina (Marsaxlokk).
As an alternative, the Marsaxlokk Local Council has issued suggested alternate routes leading to two designated parking areas that festa-goers could use.
1. Magħluq Parking Area
Access to the Magħluq parking area can be made through the following two routes:
a) Triq Melqart → Triq Pompei → Triq Kajjik → Triq Duncun → Triq Wilga → Magħluq Parking
Or
b) Triq Melqart → Triq Bir Rikka → Triq Power Station → Triq Wilga → Magħluq Parking
To exit Magħluq Parking, the recommended route is:
Triq Wilga → Triq Delimara → Triq Bir Rikka → Triq Melqart → Triq Axtar
2. Parking near the Football Ground (Qajjenza)
For those who prefer to park near the football ground, the best access is from the Birżebbuġa side towards Qajjenza. This route helps avoid congestion in the village centre.
To exit from this parking area, you may:
Use the same route you entered through or exit via Triq l-Arznell towards Triq iż-Żejtun.
As an alternative, residents can access the area through: Triq Melqart – Triq iċ-Ċippi leading to Triq Barthelemy (entrance).
While you're there, soak in the atmosphere – remember, you're standing on centuries of tradition!
Will you be joining the celebrations?