Christmas in the Capital 2026 brings together 300 artists across 25 events over one month
The Valletta Cultural Agency invites the public to celebrate Christmas in the Capital 2026, with a month-long programme beginning on the 25th November. Featuring 300 artists across 25 events, the programme represents a total investment of €750,000 and includes the Valletta National New Year’s Eve Celebrations.
Festivities begin on Wednesday 25 November, with the switching on of the Christmas Tree and the newly designed Christmas lights in Republic Street, South Street and Merchant Street. The event, taking place between 5:30pm and 8:30pm, featuring a performance by VOCA Choir and the unveiling of a new Christmas crib.
“Christmas is a time that brings our families and communities together, and culture plays an important role in strengthening this sense of unity. Through Christmas in the Capital, we continue to bring Valletta to life with a diverse cultural programme that celebrates Maltese traditions, showcases local artistic talent, and offers memorable experiences for the whole family. It is essential that, while safeguarding and preserving our heritage and traditions, we continue to make culture more accessible to everyone. I encourage the public to join us in Valletta and celebrate this special time of year together,” said Minister for the Arts, Culture and National Heritage, Dr Malcolm Paul Agius Galea.
Valletta Cultural Agency Chairman Jason Micallef said: “Christmas in the Capital has become an important part of Valletta’s cultural calendar, reinforcing its position as one of Malta’s leading festive destinations. This year’s €750,000 investment in Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations supports Malta’s artistic and cultural sectors while contributing to the capital’s economic and social vitality.”
A highlight is Carols in the Capital, taking place on 21 December at the ornate St Francis Church in Republic Street. The concert features tenor Alan Sciberras, vocalist Ritienne, the Amadeus Choir and a 35-piece orchestra under the direction of Mro. Joseph Chircop, performing Christmas music and traditional carols. The concert starts at 6:00pm and admission is free.
The traditional Baby Jesus procession returns on 17 December, starting from the Our Lady of Victories Church at 6:00pm and ending with the traditional Boy’s Sermon at St John’s Co-Cathedral.
Another innovative event is The Home Alone Movie Experience complete with actors and film props at The Valletta Design Cluster on 23 December, from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.
On 7 December, VOCA Choir will perform on the steps of St John’s Co-Cathedral between 6:00pm and 8:00pm.
Live entertainment includes performances by Ozzy Lino, Klinsmann, Kevin Paul, VOCA Choir and The Wildflowers Acoustic Duo, alongside roaming performances by Guggen Band.
Another highlight of the programme is the Christmas by Candlelight concert series by Cliff Zammit Stevens at Palazzo de La Salle, taking place on 6, 7, 8, 10, 12 and 21 December, offering audiences an intimate live music experience.
Family activities include Father Christmas and his elves distributing children’s books on 5 December, in collaboration with the National Literacy Agency, encouraging reading among younger audiences. Gootopia workshops return on 6 and 13 December, while Letters to Santa takes place on 18 and 19 December. Two festive shows featuring dancers and acrobats will entertain families on Christmas Eve.
Festivities culminate with the National New Year’s Eve Celebrations supported by a Partnership Agreement for Large-Scale Events and Initiatives provided by the Valletta Cultural Agency within the Ministry for Arts, Culture, and National Heritage. This event is also supported by the Malta Tourism Authority.
For more information and programme updates, follow the Events section and Valletta Cultural Agency on Facebook and Instagram.
