Malta has a special mix of cultural traditions, festive events, and beautiful sights during the holiday season. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Malta during the holidays, including magical Christmas markets and traditional Maltese foods that will make your visit truly memorable.

1. Experience the Magic of Fairyland

One of Malta’s most popular holiday spots is Fairyland Santa’s City in Valletta. Fairyland is a family-friendly winter wonderland that fills Pjazza Tritoni with festive cheer. This magical Christmas village has colourful stalls, Christmas trees, fairy lights, and seasonal treats.

• Ice Skating: An outdoor ice rink is set up in the square, giving you a chance to skate in a Mediterranean country.
  
• Ferris Wheel: Hop on the Ferris wheel for panoramic views of Valletta beautifully lit up with Christmas lights.
  
• Santa’s Grotto: Walk through Santa’s village and get to meet Santa Claus in person – an excellent family activity. 

Visitors can also enjoy festive performances, local food stalls, and holiday shopping in the market. Fairyland offers a magical, European-style Christmas market atmosphere on Malta’s sunny shores, making it a must-visit during the season.

2. Live Nativity Scene or ‘il-Presepju Ħaj’

A Maltese Christmas wouldn’t be complete without visiting a live nativity scene, or Presepju Ħaj. This is one of Malta’s most loved Christmas traditions, and the island hosts several in December, bringing the Biblical nativity story to life with real people and animals in outdoor settings.

• Bethlehem f’Għajnsielem: This is the most famous live nativity village on the island of Gozo (Għajnsielem). This displays the village of Bethlehem to life, with local volunteers playing the roles of shepherds, bakers, blacksmiths, and, of course, the Holy Family.

• Life-sized Cribs: These can be found in churches and public spaces across Malta and Gozo. These cribs often feature detailed handmade elements, lights, and moving parts.

Exploring the live nativity scenes offers a glimpse of Maltese community spirit and religious devotion while letting you step back in time.

3. Try Traditional Maltese Holiday Foods

Malta’s cuisine during the holidays is full of tradition and flavour. Exploring the festive food scene is one of the best ways to experience Maltese culture, as locals take their Christmas feasts seriously. Here are a few traditional Maltese holiday foods you can try:

• Imbuljuta tal-Qastan: This is a delicious warm drink made with chestnuts, cocoa, and citrus zest. It is often served after Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve and is perfect for warming up on a cool Maltese evening.

• Qagħaq tal-Għasel (Honey Rings): These are a sweet pastry that is a staple of Maltese Christmas, they’re filled with a spiced honey mixture in the form of a ring.

• Timpana: A hearty baked pasta pie that is a unique Maltese dish made with layers of macaroni, minced meat, tomatoes, and cheese wrapped in pastry, it is comfort food at its best.

• Panettone: While Panettone comes from Italy, it is very popular in Malta during the holiday season. Maltese families often exchange Panettone as gifts or enjoy it with coffee after a meal.

For an authentic experience, visit local bakeries and food markets, where you’ll find these treats and more, along with non-festive savoury delights like Pastizzi and Lampuki Pie.

4. Festive Church Services and Midnight Mass

Malta’s strong Catholic roots mean that Christmas and religious services are central to the holiday celebrations. Visiting a local church during this time is an important cultural experience, the churches are beautifully decorated with lights, flowers, and nativity scenes, creating a festive atmosphere.

• Midnight Mass: Attending Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve is a special experience, with churches across Malta and Gozo where families gather for prayers and hymns. Some services even feature children giving a traditional Christmas sermon.

• Feast of the Epiphany: While Christmas Day is the main event, the Maltese also celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany on January 6. You can see processions, carols, and special events in towns and villages, where the Three Wise Men are honoured.

5. Explore Decorated Valletta

During the holiday season, Valletta transforms into a sparkling city filled with lights, decorations, and entertainment. Republic Street, the main shopping street, is adorned with festive displays. Take a stroll through the streets to enjoy the holiday spirit.

• Christmas Concerts: The city hosts a series of concerts and events in December. From carol singing in churches to classical music performances in famous venues like the Manoel Theatre, there are plenty of options for music lovers.

• Shopping: Valletta is a great place to find Christmas gifts, including artisan crafts to Maltese delicacies. Christmas markets, pop-up shops, and local stores offer a variety of items perfect for gifts or souvenirs.

6. Visit Mdina for a Historical Holiday Feel

If you’re looking for a quieter, more historical holiday setting, head to Mdina, Malta’s ancient fortified city. Mdina’s narrow, winding streets are often decorated with simple but beautiful Christmas decorations, creating a peaceful atmosphere during the holidays.

• Silent City in Winter: Known as the “Silent City,” Mdina’s timeless beauty is even more noticeable in the cooler months. The mediaeval architecture provides a leisurely stroll, and its elevated position offers spectacular views of Malta.
  
• Local Cafés: While you’re there, take a break in one of Mdina’s cosy cafés, where you can enjoy Maltese pastries and a cup of coffee while soaking in the history and tranquillity.

Whether you’re exploring Malta’s lively Christmas markets in Valletta, sipping chestnut cocoa after Midnight Mass, or admiring life-sized nativity scenes, the island offers an unforgettable holiday experience. Rich in culture, tradition, and festive spirit, Malta during the holidays is a place where history and modern celebrations blend beautifully, making it a perfect winter destination for families, couples, and solo travellers.