Malta, a picturesque island nation in the Mediterranean, boasts a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community. The Maltese calendar is dotted with various public holidays and religious feasts, each reflecting the country’s deep-rooted traditions and history. These holidays are not only moments of celebration but also times for reflection, unity, and honoring the past. From the joyous fireworks of New Year’s Day to the solemn observance of Good Friday, and the patriotic fervor of Independence Day, each holiday offers a unique glimpse into Malta’s vibrant cultural tapestry.
This guide provides an overview of the major holidays celebrated in Malta in 2025, highlighting their significance and the unique customs associated with each.
Public Holidays in Malta In 2025
The following is the list of public holidays in Malta 2025.
Holiday | Date | Weekday |
New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
Feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck | Feb 10, 2025 | Monday |
Feast of St. Joseph | Mar 19, 2025 | Wednesday |
Freedom Day | Mar 31, 2025 | Monday |
Good Friday | Apr 18, 2025 | Friday |
Labour Day | May 01, 2025 | Thursday |
Sette Giugno | Jun 07, 2025 | Saturday |
Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul | Jun 29, 2025 | Sunday |
Feast of Mary’s Assumption | Aug 15, 2025 | Friday |
Victory Day | Sep 08, 2025 | Monday |
Independence Day | Sep 21, 2025 | Sunday |
Immaculate Conception | Dec 08, 2025 | Monday |
Republic Day | Dec 13, 2025 | Saturday |
Christmas Day | Dec 25, 2025 | Thursday |
Know more: Public Holidays in Mali In 2025 |
New Year’s Day (Jan 01, 2025)
New Year’s Day is a time to celebrate and start fresh. In Malta, people look forward to new hopes and dreams. Families gather to enjoy traditional Maltese foods like honey rings (qaghaq tal-ghazel) and Maltese pizza (ftira). Children excitedly receive gifts from elders, and adults exchange good wishes. Fireworks light up the sky, and there are many fun activities. It’s a day to think about the past year and set new goals.
Feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck (Feb 10, 2025)
This day remembers when the Apostle Paul was shipwrecked in Malta in 60 AD, bringing Christianity to the island. The Maltese celebrate with church services, processions, and re-enactments of the shipwreck. There are also traditional games and feasts, celebrating their faith and history.
Feast of St. Joseph (Mar 19, 2025)
Malta honors St. Joseph, the husband of Mary and foster father of Jesus, with church services and processions. Families come together to share traditional treats like lenten biscuits (kwarezimal) and almond-filled pastries (figolla). The day celebrates fatherhood and family values.
Freedom Day (Mar 31, 2025)
Freedom Day marks the end of British rule in Malta in 1979. The Maltese celebrate their independence with parades, speeches, and cultural events. It’s a day to remember the struggle for freedom and the sacrifices made for independence.
Good Friday (Apr 18, 2025)
Good Friday is a solemn day remembering the crucifixion of Jesus. In Malta, people join religious processions and visit seven different churches in a ritual called the Seven Visits. Many observe fasting and abstain from certain foods. It’s a day of deep spiritual reflection and prayer.
Labor Day (May 01, 2025)
Labor Day, or Workers’ Day, celebrates the contributions of workers. In Malta, trade unions hold rallies and events to promote workers’ rights. Families enjoy picnics and outdoor activities, making the most of the spring weather. It’s a reminder of the importance of workers in society.
Sette Giugno (Jun 07, 2025)
Sette Giugno commemorates the 1919 riots against British rule, which played a crucial role in Malta’s path to independence. Sette Giugno day is marked with parades, speeches, and cultural events, honoring those who fought for self-governance.
Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul (Jun 29, 2025)
This feast honors the two apostles who are considered founders of the Christian Church. In Malta, churches are decorated, and processions carry statues of the saints through the streets. Families share traditional foods like vegetable soup (kawlata) and baked rice (ross il-forn), celebrating their faith and heritage.
Feast of Mary’s Assumption (Aug 15, 2025)
Also known as Santa Marija, this day celebrates the belief that the Virgin Mary was taken into Heaven. Maltese towns host processions, fireworks, and traditional music and dance. Families gather for special meals and share sweets like date-filled pastries (mqaret). It’s a time to honor the Virgin Mary and Maltese culture.
Victory Day (Sep 08, 2025)
Victory Day marks the end of the Siege of Malta in World War II. The Maltese honor the courage and sacrifices of those who defended the island with parades, memorial services, and cultural events. It’s a day of national pride and remembrance.
Independence Day (Sep 21, 2025)
Independence Day celebrates Malta’s independence from British rule in 1964. The day is filled with parades, speeches, and cultural events. Families and communities gather to celebrate and remember the struggle for independence and the joy of self-governance.
Immaculate Conception (Dec 08, 2025)
This festival day celebrates the belief that the Virgin Mary was conceived without original sin. In Malta, churches are decorated, and processions carry statues of Mary through the streets. Families share sweet pastries (kwafi), celebrating their faith and devotion to the Virgin Mary.
Republic Day (Dec 13, 2025)
Republic Day marks Malta’s transition to a republic in 1974. The Maltese celebrate their sovereignty with parades, speeches, and cultural events. It’s a day to reflect on the nation’s journey and reaffirm the values of freedom, equality, and self-governance.
Christmas Day (Dec 25, 2025)
Christmas is a joyful celebration in Malta, with families gathering for special meals featuring traditional dishes like savory pies (qassatat) and chestnut soup (imbuljuta tal-qastan). Children eagerly await Santa Claus (Tan-Nixlief) and exchange gifts. Churches are beautifully decorated, and many attend midnight mass.