Christmas in Malta: a festive season to remember
While much of Europe glistens under snow, Christmas in Malta offers something different: mild Mediterranean days, golden light and centuries-old traditions wrapped in warmth and charm. From the twinkling streets of Valletta to the peaceful village squares, the islands transform into a glowing winter wonderland. This is the season when locals and visitors alike slow down, savour the moment and gather to celebrate what truly matters.
Valletta’s Christmas magic
There’s no better way to feel the spirit of the season than by wandering through Valletta, where fairy lights cascade from balconies and the scent of roasted chestnuts fills the air. The Valletta Christmas Market on Republic Street is a must-visit, lined with artisan stalls, local delicacies and hand-crafted gifts. Carolers bring the streets to life while festive music echoes from nearby churches.
Valletta also comes alive with open-air concerts, pop-up events and seasonal performances, including traditional Christmas carols in the square and live music that fills the crisp evening air. For a touch of history, a visit to St John’s Co-Cathedral during the festive season is a truly special experience.
Timeless Maltese traditions
Christmas in Malta is deeply rooted in faith and community. Villages proudly display presepji (nativity scenes) in windows and public squares, often intricately handcrafted and unique to each locality.
Homes are adorned with flickering candles and garlands and many locals gather in the evenings to share mulled wine, qagħaq tal-għasel (honey rings) and warm conversation. It’s a season that blends sacred rituals with simple joys, creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and festive.
Festive shopping in Malta
Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a touch of shopping and Malta delivers plenty of inspiration. Valletta’s boutiques and artisan shops are perfect for finding locally made gifts, including handmade ceramics, lace, gourmet treats and Maltese honey. In nearby Sliema, larger shopping streets and designer boutiques offer a more modern festive spree, beautifully decorated with Christmas lights and window displays.
Festive dining at Corinthia Palace
For those seeking a truly memorable holiday, Corinthia Palace captures the season’s spirit with elegance. At the heart of it all, Villa Corinthia sets the scene for festive celebrations, from indulgent Christmas Day lunches to elegant New Year’s Eve dinners and New Year’s Day feasts.
Alongside festive afternoon teas and seasonal drinks, the hotel offers curated experiences that bring together exceptional flavours and a joyful ambience. Whether it’s a long lunch with family, a celebratory toast with friends or a refined evening dinner, the festive atmosphere at Corinthia Palace is nothing short of magical.
Exploring the island’s seasonal charm
Beyond the capital, our island is sprinkled with festive experiences. Visit the illuminated streets of Mdina, where the Silent City glows under soft golden lights. Discover charming village markets, explore the Christmas Village in Ta’ Qali or take a coastal stroll to enjoy Malta’s winter sunshine. With mild temperatures, it’s the perfect time to wander through the island’s historic towns and scenic landscapes without the summer crowds.
For those who love music, seasonal concerts and classical recitals take place in historic venues, adding a cultural touch to the holiday mood. And for families, nativity pageants and festive shows bring the spirit of the season to life.
A celebration of art and seasonal exhibitions
During the festive season, Malta’s art scene comes alive with curated exhibitions that celebrate local craftsmanship and holiday themes. In Valletta, visitors can explore the “Republic of Malta: The First Fifty Years, 1974-2024” exhibition at the Grand Master’s Palace, a multimedia display of Malta’s journey as a republic including archival documents, artefacts and visual storytelling.
Additionally, the Maltese Cribs and Christmas Art Exhibition often opens at Auberge d’Italie, showcasing nativity art, sculptural cribs (presepji) and complementary seasonal works by Maltese artists.
In Gozo, the Wirja ta’ Presepji (Nativity Expo) at St Augustine Convent features over 20 dioramas and nativity scenes created by local artisans and associations, each piece telling its own story through terracotta figures, lighting and scenic detail.
Meanwhile, at Bir Miftuħ Chapel, a seasonal Crib Exhibition runs from mid-December into early January (typically 17 December to 5 January), featuring handcrafted nativity scenes by local artists, open in the evenings for visitors to enjoy under soft lighting.
For contemporary art lovers, the Old School Studios Collective Art Exhibition in Żejtun (often held mid-December) brings together emerging Maltese artists to showcase paintings, mixed media and installations in a former convent setting - a creative contrast to religious-themed shows.
These exhibitions provide both contemplative and festive experiences, ideal for guests staying at Corinthia Palace who wish to immerse themselves in Malta’s art and culture during the holiday season.
Republic Day and the artistic spectacle in the square
Republic Day, on 13 December, is a deeply patriotic and celebratory moment in Malta’s festive calendar. This year, Valletta hosts “L-Istorja, Int” (or “L-Istorja Aħna”), a large-scale audio-visual projection show on the façade of the Presidential Palace in St George’s Square. The show narrates Malta’s growth over the past fifty years as a republic, blending visuals, light and storytelling in a public spectacle. It's free to attend and scheduled over several nights around Republic Day to ensure widespread engagement.
Complementing the show, there are often parades, cultural performances and exhibitions open across the city. As the Republic Day energies mingle with Christmas lights and decorations, the capital pulses with both national pride and festive warmth, a unique convergence that guests at Corinthia Palace can easily walk to and enjoy.
A Christmas holiday you’ll never forget
Whether you’re travelling for a romantic escape, a family celebration or a quiet festive retreat, Christmas in Malta offers a truly unique seasonal experience. Staying at Corinthia Palace places you at the heart of it all, close to the island’s most enchanting Christmas moments and wrapped in five-star comfort.
This year, let the warmth of the Mediterranean, the charm of Maltese traditions and the elegance of Corinthia Palace make your festive season one to remember.
