Amanda PhillipsWith its beautiful landscape, fascinating history, charming culture and sun-drenched weather – Malta is one of the best places in Europe to host an event. Whether it is a cultural festival that explores the Maltese way of life or a music concert that attracts some of the biggest international names in the business. Malta’s events calendar is jam-packed, with over 400 events each year, we’ve made your choice easier by hand-selecting 10 of the best on the islands!
Malta International Fireworks Festival
The Malta International Fireworks Festival is held every year at the end of April to celebrate Malta’s accessions into the European Union. The festival is held in Valletta’s Grand Harbour, and includes fireworks displays designed by foreign pyrotechnic companies as well as some of the best local fireworks factories. This is a public event that is free of charge.
Dates: Every April
Amp Lost & Found Festival
If you love electronic music, head to Malta during the May Bank Holiday for the Lost & Found Festival. This year’s event has just passed, but previous acts have included St Paul’s Bay will be hosting the likes of Chase & Status, Denis Sulta, The Martinez Brothers, Skream, Patrick Topping, Moxie, Richy Ahmed as well as Peggy Gou, Honey Dijon, AJ Tracey, The Black Madonna, Camelphat, Bugzy Malone and many more!
Dates: May
Għanafest
This festival takes its name from the Maltese folk singing known as ‘Għana’ (pronounced A-na) and explores this music genre in-depth, as well as some of its related genres. It lasts for two days and takes place in the stunning surroundings of Argotti Gardens in Floriana.
Dates: 21st June – 22nd June 2019
Malta Music Week
If you’re looking for an energetic clubbing holiday, then visit Malta in July during Malta Music Week. Organised by Isle of MTV, Malta Music Week features various activities ranging from club nights and live street concerts to an official concert with an after-party. International artists such as the Chainsmokers, Calvin Harris, INNA, Eric Prydz, Pete Tong, and Dash Berlin have performed in the past! Isle of MTV is a free music festival attracting over 50,000 people a year.
Dates: 9th July – 13th July 2019
Malta Jazz Festival
The Malta Jazz Festival has become a staple in the country’s annual events calendar. It brings together some of the best Maltese and International jazz artists, with both main stage performances and fringe events.
The highlights for this year’s programme are Kenny Garrett, one of the world’s most renowned saxophone players; Jazzmeia Horn one of the most important jazz vocalists; and Ozmosys featuring legendary jazz drummer Omar Hakim: one of the most versatile eclectic Jazz drummers who has collaborated with Miles Davis, Dire Straits, Daft Punk and David Bowie.
Dates: 15th July – 20th July 2019
Glitch Festival
Another festival for fans of electronic music! Hailed by Mixmag as a “House and Techno paradise”, the 4th edition of Glitch Festival will feature 6 stages. From rooftop pool parties to secret cave raves. Dancers will be able to lose themselves to the sounds of Carl Cox, Bicep, Ben Klock, Charlotte De Witte, Len Faki, Peggy Gou, Helena Hauff, Motor City Drum Ensemble, Palms Trax, Paula Temple and Mall Grab.
Dates: 14th August – 15th of August 2019
Malta Pride
Where better to celebrate Pride than in the heart of the Mediterranean? This annual festival on Malta Island features street parties, LGBT+ floats, a parade, concerts, events and fun-filled activities.
Dates: 6th September – 15th September 2019
Notte Bianca
If you’re a night owl with a penchant for culture, we recommend visiting in October so you can attend Notte Bianca. During Notte Bianca, the city of Valletta comes alive at night with a spectacular nocturnal celebration of people, culture and arts.
State palaces and museums open their doors to visual art exhibitions and theatre performances, while the open-air streets and piazzas showcase some of the finest local and international musicians and dancers.
On top of that, cafés and restaurants remain open until late, while food stalls occupy the streets.
Dates: 5th October 2019
Festival Mediterranea
If you’re looking to learn about Maltese culture and history – with a side-helping of artistic performances – then head to the island of Gozo during October and November for Festival Mediterranea.
Organised by Teatru Astra, this festival focuses on Malta’s cultural and artistic contributions. The highlight of the festival is the spectacular presentation of Giuseppe Verdi’s Il Trovatore, with performances on the 24th and 26th October 2019. Other events include classical and symphonic music as well as vocal recitals!
Dates: 19th October 2019 – 30th November 2019
Valletta International Baroque Festival
Since its launch in 2013, the Valletta International Baroque Festival has treated audiences to a unique event featuring some of the best ensembles in the baroque music scene. The main venue is none other than Teatru Manoel, one of the oldest working theatres in the world. While the St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grandmaster’s Palace will also host fringe events.
Dates: 11th January – 26th January 2020
