Maltese summers are known for their religious feasts, during which stands selling local delicacies are set up, Catherine wheels light up the sky and the village church bands parade in all their glory. And, with so many happening, it’s sometimes difficult to decide where to go. This week, pick from some of the very best with these suggestions.
1. Feast of St George, Qormi
One of the biggest feasts on the island, this annual celebration lights up the entire town. For a whole week prior to the main events this Sunday, Qormi becomes a veritable glistening party, with streets decorated in festive lights, the Parish Church decked out in all its glory and brass band marches trumpeting through the streets in the evenings. On Sunday, a procession snakes its way around the town, followed by a heaving crowd craning their necks to catch a glimpse of the titular statue.
2. Feast of St Nicholas, Siggiewi
This quiet town in the centre of the island knows how to party. While during the year, the residents savour the quaint local flavour of the alley ways, the parish church and houses of character, traditional flair booms during the village feast, with festoons and street decorations marking the Feast of St Nicholas. Ice cream stalls sit side by side with the more conventional hawkers, so leave some space for dessert before making your way to the celebration.
3. Feast of the Sacred Heart of Mary, Burmarrad
Burmarrad, a hamlet located toward the centre-north of Malta, close to the larger town of St Paul’s Bay, is not usually on the tourist map, but maybe it should be – at least for this week, at any rate! The Feast of the Sacred Heart of Mary is the perfect excuse to visit this expanding suburb, particularly the area surrounding the parish church. While festivities will be happening all week, as with the larger towns, this place shows its vibrant enthusiasm this Sunday with – yes you’ve guessed it – brass bands and a procession.
4. The Feast of St John the Baptist, Xewkija, Gozo
Xewkija is one of the oldest villages in Gozo, boasting the biggest church on Malta’s sister island and one of the largest rotundas (domed churches) in the world. Make a day (or week, if you’re so inclined) of it to truly explore this village, and the surrounding area. This feast is truly spectacular, with concerts by the local Prekursur brass band and horse racing in the streets.
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