Malta's August shutdown explained! Here's why locals take this magical week off work
There are quite a number of holidays, festi and other reasons for us locals to call off any form of ‘work’ and enjoy a few days of bliss on the islands. But there’s one magical week that trumps any other - one that hails supreme over all the other days of luxury and relaxation… Santa Marija week in August.
Noted as the most popular period for local businesses to go on shutdown for one to two weeks, Santa Marija celebrates a very important historical event for the Republic of Malta. August of 1942 was not the most glamorous time for the island - if you're familiar with Malta's WWII history, you'll know that the island was one of the most bombed countries in the war, and the war, the British and moments of triumph are involved in this story.
Picture this: a hungry and deprived nation battled the Nazis and Fascists with Great Britain as the main lead on local waters for 3+ years, with Malta’s close proximity to Mussolini’s Italy making it a prime location for attack, and Hitler was not giving up that easily. Bombs came crashing down daily, destroying not only what was left of the Maltese landscape but also targeting the fleets coming in to nourish and fuel the population and their artillery. A genius plan that saw a desperate people defeated in morale, spirit and energy. But there was hope.
The Ohio was the pinnacle of hope for the salvation for the Maltese population. The Ohio, a vessel led by a British captain but sent by American forces carried food, fuel and other goods to Malta, and despite the heavy bombing and brutal destruction, managed to break away from enemy bombs and find refuge in Maltese waters.
On the 14th of August 1942, Malta saw hope. The Ohio gave the islands a steady source of energy and power to fulfill the task at hand, and find a means by which to dominate with their allies. 15th of August is also known for a local Catholic feast, The Assumption of Our Lady, and due to the relief and celebration that the Ohio vessel brought to the Maltese; the event was quickly renamed the Santa Marija Convoy.
Most locals take this feast as a break from the scorching heat which reaches its peak at this time of year, and chill by the pool or beach forgetting their duties back at the office. But there’s so much more to celebrate than ridding oneself of their 9-5 commitment.
This public holiday is replete with fireworks, extravagant parties and laid-back yet well-deserved hours of zen - but this year; remember to also make room for a spot of national pride; with a good old beer in hand of course!