Valletta comes alive with holiday spirit this festive season as Christmas in the Capital kicks off on Sunday, 24th November with a special event to celebrate the lighting of Republic Street.

Join us from 5:30pm near Parliament in Freedom Square as Maltese artist Klinsmann Coleiro opens the festivities with a lively music performance. At 6:00pm, the city will be illuminated with over 600 meters of street lights, along Republic Street, Merchants Street, and South Street. The centerpiece—a stunning 21-metre Christmas tree decorated with traditional local persjani—will be lit in Freedom Square.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Għaqda Madonna tal-Karmnu invites visitors to experience a traditional Nativity crib display next to St. John’s Co-Cathedral, beautifully crafted to capture the spirit of Christmas and open for viewing from November 25 until January 8.

This magical moment marks the start of a month-long celebration featuring live performances, street entertainment, and unique Christmas installations.

A Variety of Weekend Events

Throughout the season, Valletta’s streets will come alive with the sights and sounds of Christmas. On the 30th November and on the 1st December, the city will transform into an open-air stage with street performers, buskers, and artists filling Valletta with spontaneous performances. Musicians, dancers, painters, and circus acts will create a lively atmosphere, inviting all visitors to be a part of the spectacle.

On the 7th and 8th December, browse through a festive Artisan Christmas Village on Merchants Street, organised by the Valletta Local Council. Discover unique handmade crafts and festive gifts, perfect for holiday shopping. Enjoy the charming ambiance as local artisans display their creations, offering everything from seasonal treats to custom crafts.

Special Performances and Kid-Friendly Fun

For families, the Valletta Design Cluster will host a kids’ workshop on the 14th December, where little ones can create their own Christmas-themed slime creations to take home. That same weekend, Afterglow’s roaming Christmas mascots will delight children and adults alike as they bring festive cheer around the city.

Musical performances are scheduled throughout the season, featuring talents like Chiara Siracusa, Franklin Calleja, Janvil, and the Centerstage Choir. Highlights include the traditional Baby Jesus Procession on the 20th, with live choir music from Cappella Musicale Caeciliana on the steps of St. John’s Co-Cathedral and a flash mob performance by Dancel Dance Studio on the 22nd December.

Festivities reach their peak with the National New Year’s Eve Celebrations in St George’s Square on the 31^st December.

Join us in Valletta this Christmas season – celebrate tradition, music, and the warmth of community in a magical setting!