December is in full swing, and with it comes a dazzling array of Christmas events that capture the festive spirit. Across localities in Malta and Gozo, markets come alive with artisanal crafts, delectable treats, and twinkling lights, offering the perfect setting to shop for unique gifts or simply soak up the holiday cheer. Music enthusiasts can look forward to captivating performances, from traditional carols to modern festive concerts, while families can enjoy events tailored to children, featuring everything from opportunities to meet Father Christmas to winter trails.

Whether you're seeking a cultural experience, a family outing, or simply a festive escape, this month's holiday calendar will not disappoint. Here are some of the many events happening across Malta and Gozo this holiday season:

Christmas markets

Across the world, especially in Europe, many travel to different countries to experience their unique festive atmosphere. In recent years, Malta has joined in, hosting various Christmas markets in villages and key areas.

Perhaps one of the biggest Christmas markets in Malta is Natalis Notabilis, where Rabat's streets transform into a Christmas Village for nine days.

Now's the chance to visit Natalis Notabilis, featuring its newly enhanced nativity trail before it concludes on Sunday 15th December.

Another annual tradition is Valletta’s Fairyland, where Triton Square, the capital city’s gateway, is converted into Santa’s City. From a large carousel to stalls and children’s activities, Fairyland is set to deliver another exciting season from Friday 6th December to Sunday 5th January.

Artisanal Christmas Markets are also well attended. The Malta Artisanal Christmas Market at Palazzo Parisio, in Naxxar, provides a festive baroque setting for local artisans to promote their handcrafted products. This event will take place on Sunday 15th December between 10am and 6pm. 

Also in Naxxar, the local council is organising Milied Tfuliti on Friday, 13th December, celebrating Maltese Christmas traditions.

In Malta’s sister island, Gozo, Magro Brothers host The Magro Christmas Family Fest, designed for families and children.

Held in Xewkija, the timetable for the family fest will be held as follows:

Friday 13th: 10am – 4:30pm
Saturday 14th: 10m – 1:30pm and 3pm – 4:30pm
Sunday 15th: 10am – 1:30pm and 3pm – 4.30pm
Saturday 21st: 10am – 1:30pm
Sunday 22nd: 10am – 1:30pm and 3pm – 4.30pm
Monday 23rd: 10am – 1:30pm
Tuesday 24th: 10am – 1:30pm

For the fifth edition, the Magic Illuminated Trail and Christmas Village is returning to Verdala Palace in Buskett for a month-long celebration. Running from 4th December to 4th January, the festival of lights will support the Malta Community Chest Fund Foundation.

A musical and comedic Christmas

Musical events are also popular during this magical period. Malta’s national choir, KorMalta, returns to Spazju Kreattiv for its Christmas concert tradition. This year’s event will feature classics like Ave Maria and O Magnum Mysterium.

Popular band The Travellers will once again hold their annual Christmas show. This year, ‘Il-Pjan tal-Elfu’ will take place on 20th, 21st, and 22nd December in Rabat, under the artistic direction of Take Two.

Additionally, local tenor Joseph Calleja will perform alongside renowned Italian trio Il Volo on 20th December, at MFCC Ta’ Qali.

Another exciting annual event is the panto at the Manoel Theatre. Produced by FM Theatre Productions, this year’s ‘Rapunzel – A Tangled Panto’ is written by Edward Mercieca and directed by Luke Mercieca. Leading the cast, Edward Mercieca and Chiara Hyzler promise to deliver another magical evening at the Valletta theatre. The story follows Dame Tfarfira and her quirky gang as they set out to rescue Rapunzel, defeat the wicked Gothel, and return the beloved lost princess to her home. The production will run from 22nd December to 5th January.

As traditions endure, Comedy Knights returns on Boxing Day with its annual event, this year titled ‘Comedy Knights: Dozen Get Funnier Than This!’ If you’re in the mood for a good laugh, head to Sir Temi Zammit Hall at the University of Malta; the show will be running until 5th January.

Ringing in the new year at the city

There are hundreds of celebrations going on around New Years Eve however, the annual celebration in Valletta will once again return, ready to attract crowds at Malta’s capital.

Celebrations will see the participation of Ira Losco, Red Electric, Shaun Farrugia, Kevin Paul, Dr Koroma and Dj Miggy. Additionally, CASCADA will be coming to Malta for the event