Christmas and New Year are special times of year to spend with family, friends, and loved ones.
If you’re looking to spend the festive season in a truly unique way, Malta is the perfect destination. With its spectacular Mediterranean coastline, rich culture, picturesque villages and vibrant nightlife, Malta offers an unforgettable experience during the holiday season.
Enjoying a mild Mediterranean climate and sunny skies all year round, the Maltese islands offer plenty to do during the Christmas season—from traditional markets to live music, fireworks, concerts, and naturally, beautifully decorated quaint streets throughout the islands.
With such a full calendar of events to celebrate this holiday season in Malta, it may take effort to pick the best events to attend during your stay on the island. So if you’re planning your festive getaway or a fun-filled break for the family—we’ve compiled a list of some of the top things to do during Christmas and New Year in Malta.
#1: Visit one of Malta’s Christmas Markets
Christmas markets are a classic during the festive season. Shopping for tree decorations, ornaments, and gifts, and naturally, sampling seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and roasted almonds—these holiday events bring together the best of local culture and seasonal cheer.
The most famous Christmas market in Malta is Fairyland, held right outside Valletta’s City Gate, Pjazza Tritoni. Open between 8 December 2022 and 6 January 2023; attractions include Rudolph’s Big Wheel, through which you can get a birds-eye view of the city, Santa’s Magical Carousel, Little Airport, ice skating, Santa’s Grotto, and more!
Other Christmas markets in Malta include the Christmas Village at the Valletta Waterfront (26 November and 6 January), the Bisazza Street Christmas Market in Sliema (1 December 1–31 December 2022), the Christmas Market at Pjazza Tigne (10th and 13th December).
#2: Taste some of the local festive delicacies
Food in Malta is excellent, but festive food in Malta is even better! One of the best ways to spend the festive season on the island is to sample all the local delicacies it offers, especially all the delicious festive food part of the local cuisine. It’s tough to pick favourites, but some of the tasty treats we think you should try include:
- Qagħaq tal-għasel: Known as “Honey Ring” in English, this dessert is made with a pastry filled with what locals call “qastanija”, a delicious mix made with marmalade, sugar, lemon, oranges, mixed spices, cinnamon, vanilla and syrup.
- Christmas log: Made with crushed biscuits, dried cherries, nuts, and liqueur, the Maltese variant of the Christmas log is a must in every Maltese household during the festive season.
- Imbuljuta tal-Qastan: Typically served on Christmas Eve, this warm drink consists of chestnuts and a beautiful mix of cocoa powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest.
- Pudina tal-ħobż: Bread pudding is another staple during the festive season, and this centuries-old traditional dessert is typically made with bread, sultanas, candied peel and chocolate.
#3: Visit some of Malta’s outstanding restaurants
Malta offers a wide variety of excellent restaurants all over the island, serving some of the best food you’ll ever taste! From classic Maltese cuisine to Mediterranean and international flavours, there’s something for everyone.
Are you looking for an authentic taste of Malta? Then look out for one of the island’s famous dishes. These include ftira or ħobża biż-żejt, a type of bread filled with tuna, tomatoes and onions; pastizzi, a savoury cheese or pea cake, rabbit stew, and bragioli, a beef or pork dish—to mention a few.
For dessert, either try one of the traditional festive treats mentioned above or something typically enjoyed all year round, such as imqaret, a deep-fried pastry filled with dates.
#4: Go to a panto
If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly activity to enjoy while visiting Malta, look no further than attending a panto! This is a great way to experience the festive spirit during your stay —with the most famous pantomime being the one held at the Manoel Theatre in Valletta.
This year’s highly-acclaimed production Ċikku and the Chocolate Panto, a homage to Roald Dahl, promises another success as previous editions. This pantomime will run between 23 December and 8 January with shows at 3 pm and 8 pm, and you can get your tickets or find out more at www.teatrumanoel.mt.
#5: Experience bar hopping on New Year’s Eve
From lively bars and clubs to quaint pubs and lounges, Malta has plenty of choices when it comes to ringing in the new year. And if you’re looking for an exciting night out on the island, then bar hopping in Malta is the perfect way to do it.
There are hundreds of bars and clubs peppered around the island. From the lively streets of Paceville to the picturesque town of Sliema and the quaint bars in Valletta, you’ll find something that suits your taste and the ideal spot to say goodbye to 2022 and welcome 2023!
Remember to check out our blog about travelling around Malta to ensure you return home safely after a fun night out!
Enjoy the Festive Season with us at the 1926 Hotel and Spa
The festive season is a time to celebrate with family and friends, and at 1926 Hotel and Spa, we create an atmosphere perfect for those special moments.
In our comfortable and centrally-located accommodation, we have something for everyone to enjoy during their stay in Malta. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a trip with your family on the island, join us at 1926 Hotel & Spa to make this holiday season one to remember.
Book your room now, or contact us at reservations@roosendaal.com.mt or + 365 21333565 for more information.
