Event guide
Christmas Day (Malta)
Christmas Day (25 December) is a national public holiday in deeply Catholic Malta. Expect church services, family gatherings, Christmas lights across Valletta and the towns, and the traditional nativity cribs (presepji) on display.
At a glance
- Dates
- December 25, 2026
- Where
- Nationwide
- Price
- Free (public holiday)
- Official
- www.gov.mt ↗
Last updated:
What to expect
- National public holiday with a strong religious tradition
- Christmas lights and nativity cribs (presepji) across Valletta
- Midnight Mass and family celebrations island-wide
Planning tips
- Most shops, attractions and restaurants close on 25 December
- Note Malta has no Boxing Day holiday — 26 December is a normal day
- Book Christmas-lunch venues well in advance
Build a day around it
Valletta events work best when the day stays low-effort: one event block, one food stop, and one slow walk for the harbour light — with buffer. Keep it simple and the city feels more beautiful.
- If you have 2–3 hours: arrive early → event → short waterfront/viewpoint loop.
- If you’re making a full day: one landmark block + event + a calm dinner plan.
- If the weather turns: keep walking minimal and use cafés/museums as your buffer.
Before you go
- Confirm the details: check the official link for last-minute schedule or venue updates.
- Arrive with buffer: 15–30 minutes early usually makes the whole experience calmer.
- Have a weather plan: keep one indoor “warm stop” in mind in case the day turns.