A Mediterranean Holiday Wonderland
Ah, Christmas in Malta! Picture this: sunny skies, festive cheer, and a unique blend of Mediterranean charm and holiday spirit. If you’re wondering, “Does Malta celebrate Christmas?” – oh boy, do they ever! Let’s dive into the magical world of Malta Christmas traditions, food, and festivities that make this island nation a hidden gem for holiday seekers.
What is Malta Like at Christmas?
Imagine strolling through streets adorned with twinkling lights, the scent of cinnamon and cloves wafting through the air, and the sound of carols sung in Maltese. That’s Malta at Christmas for you! The island transforms into a winter wonderland (minus the snow, of course – we’ll get to the Malta Christmas weather in a bit). And if you’re curious about where Malta actually is, it’s smack dab in the middle of the Mediterranean, making it a perfect holiday escape!
Malta Christmas Weather: Sun, Sand, and… Santa?
While the rest of Europe shivers, Malta Christmas weather is like a warm hug from Mother Nature. With temperatures often hovering around 15-20°C (59-68°F), you can swap your snow boots for sandals. Is Malta good for holidays in winter? You bet! It’s perfect for those who want to escape the cold but still soak in the festive atmosphere. In fact, visiting Malta in November is a great way to kick off the holiday season early!
Maltese Christmas Traditions
Christmas Eve: The Calm Before the Storm
Picture this: It’s Christmas Eve in Malta. The air is thick with anticipation (and the smell of baking pastries). While some folks are frantically stuffing turkeys and wrapping last-minute gifts, others are doing what any sensible person would do – escaping to Gozo for a bit of pre-Christmas zen. Smart cookies, those ones!
As night falls, it’s time for Midnight Mass. Now, if you think this is just your run-of-the-mill church service, think again! It’s more like a spiritual rock concert, minus the crowd surfing (although I wouldn’t put it past some enthusiastic grandmas). The churches are lit up like Christmas trees on steroids, and the sound of Maltese carols fills the air. It’s enough to make even the Grinch’s heart grow three sizes!
Christmas Day: Eat, Pray, Love (But Mostly Eat)
Christmas Day in Malta is like your favorite pair of stretchy pants – it just keeps expanding to fit more in. Lunch isn’t just a meal; it’s an epic saga that could rival “The Lord of the Rings” in length. We’re talking multiple courses, enough wine to float a small boat, and desserts that’ll make your dentist weep.
But wait, there’s more! Once the food coma wears off, the young and restless hit Paceville. Because nothing says “Merry Christmas” like dancing off those 10,000 calories you just consumed, right?
Cribs on Steroids: The Presepju Phenomenon
Forget those dinky little Nativity scenes you’re used to. In Malta, we go big or go home. The “Presepju” (Nativity crib) is like the Maltese version of “Pimp My Ride” – but for baby Jesus. We’re talking life-sized figures, elaborate settings, and sometimes even live animals. (Pro tip: Watch your step around the donkeys. They’re not always house-trained.)
Photo Credit : Christmark Chircop
Midnight Mass: The Christmas Eve Super Bowl
Attending Midnight Mass in Malta is like going to the Super Bowl of Christmas Eve. It’s got all the elements of a great show: stunning visuals (hello, bedazzled churches), an awesome soundtrack (Maltese carols for the win), and even a halftime show of sorts – the Children’s Sermon.
Picture this: a tiny tot, probably hopped up on Christmas cookies, delivering a sermon about the birth of Jesus. It’s equal parts adorable and hilarious, especially when they go off-script. “And then baby Jesus said, ‘Mama, I want a PS5 for Christmas!'” Priceless.
Deck the Halls… and Streets… and Everything Else
When it comes to Christmas decorations, Malta doesn’t just deck the halls – it decks the entire island. It’s like the country collectively decided, “You know what? Let’s just wrap the whole place in tinsel.” The result? A twinkling wonderland that’s visible from space. (Okay, maybe not, but it’s pretty darn close.)
Food, Glorious Food!
If you thought your family goes overboard with Christmas food, wait till you see a Maltese Christmas spread. It’s like someone took a British Christmas dinner, threw in some Mediterranean flair, and then decided, “You know what this needs? More food!”
From traditional Maltese treats to that Italian interloper Panettone (which has been embraced with open arms and stretchy waistbands), the Maltese Christmas table is a United Nations of deliciousness. And let’s not forget the Imbuljuta tal-Qastan – a Christmas drink that’s basically chestnuts having a hot tub party in your mug. Delish!
Gulbiena: The Chia Pet of Christmas
In a twist that would make any gardener scratch their head, Maltese folks grow “gulbiena” (vetches) as Christmas decorations. It’s like having a Chia Pet, but make it festive. These white, noodle-like sprouts end up decorating Nativity scenes and window sills. Because nothing says “Happy Birthday, Jesus” like some strategically placed garden sprouts, right?
Jesus Statues: The Original Family Heirloom
Move over, grandma’s pearls! In Malta, the real family heirlooms are baby Jesus statues. These little guys get passed down through generations like a game of holy hot potato. Come Christmas, they’re given the VIP treatment – prime real estate in the house and more outfit changes than a pop star on tour.
The Christmas Novena: Nine Days of “Are We There Yet?”
For nine days leading up to Christmas, many Maltese families participate in the Christmas Novena. It’s like an advent calendar, but instead of chocolate, you get prayers. From December 16th to 24th, it’s all about getting spiritually pumped for the big day. Think of it as a religious boot camp, but with less pushups and more “Hail Marys.”
The Girgenti Procession: Baby Jesus Takes a Tour
In some villages, they take the whole “baby Jesus” thing to a new level with the Girgenti procession. Picture this: a statue of baby Jesus, probably wearing more bling than a rapper, being paraded through the streets like a tiny celebrity. Add in some festive bands, and you’ve got yourself a holy block party!
Boxing Day: The Aftermath
After all the excitement of Christmas Day, Boxing Day (or St. Stephen’s Day) is when Malta collectively says, “Phew, let’s take a breather.” It’s a day for visiting friends, eating leftovers (yes, there’s still food), and maybe taking a stroll to walk off that food baby you’ve been nurturing.
So there you have it, folks – Christmas in Malta, where the weather is warm, the food is plentiful, and the celebrations are turned up to eleven. Whether you’re a seasoned Malta pro or a curious first-timer, Christmas on this Mediterranean gem is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Just remember to pack your stretchy pants and your sense of humor – you’re gonna need both!
Want to make this sunny Christmas dream a reality? Check out our guide on finding the perfect Airbnb in Malta for your holiday getaway. And if you’re bringing the little ones, don’t miss our tips on the best things to do in Malta with kids – because nothing says “Merry Christmas” like a family adventure in paradise!
Malta on Christmas Day: Family, Food, and Festivities
Christmas Day in Malta is all about family gatherings and epic feasts that can last for hours. After stuffing themselves silly, many young adults hit the bars in Paceville for some holiday cheer of a different kind!
What to Do in Malta at Christmas
- Visit the Valletta Waterfront for stunning Christmas lights.
- Check out the life-sized Nativity scene in Ghajnsielem, Gozo.
- Join in the fun at Fairyland in Santa’s City, Valletta.
- Take a Christmas Day dip in the Mediterranean (if you’re brave enough)!
And if you’re looking for more adventure, why not try some mountain biking in Malta or rock climbing for a Christmas with a twist?
Staying in Malta for Christmas
If you’re planning to spend Christmas in Malta, you might want to consider Airbnb options in Malta for a cozy, home-away-from-home experience. And for those digital nomads out there, Malta is becoming quite the hotspot – check out our guide on remote work from Malta to see if you could make this Mediterranean paradise your office for the holidays!
Consider our two favourite accommodations. Checkout the one in Sliema or the one in Gzira.
FAQ: Your Burning Malta Christmas Questions Answered
Q: How do you say Merry Christmas in Malta?
A: “Il-Milied it-Tajjeb!” Pronounce it as “eel mee-leed eet tie-yeb”. Practice that a few times, and you’ll be spreading Christmas cheer like a local!
Q: When do people in Malta celebrate Christmas?
A: The main celebrations are on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (December 24th and 25th), but the festive season kicks off in early December and continues until January 6th (Epiphany).
Q: What meals are eaten during Christmas in Malta?
A: Traditional Christmas meals include roast turkey (dundjan), baked potatoes, Christmas pudding, and mince pies. Don’t forget the Qaghaq tal-Ghasel (honey rings) for dessert!
Q: What does Malta call Christmas?
A: In Maltese, Christmas is called “Il-Milied”.
So there you have it, folks! A whirlwind tour of Christmas in Malta. Whether you’re planning a sunny escape or just daydreaming about Mediterranean holidays, Malta at Christmas is a unique blend of tradition, sun, and festive cheer. Who knows? You might find yourself swapping your usual white Christmas for a Maltese blue one next year! And if you’re looking to explore more of Malta’s treasures, don’t forget to check out our Malta Travel Guide for all the insider tips and tricks!
