Event guide
Feast of St Joseph (Malta)
St Joseph's Day (19 March) is a Maltese national public holiday and major religious feast, celebrated with particular grandeur in Rabat with processions, band marches and the traditional 'irbula' bread.
At a glance
- Dates
- March 19, 2027
- Where
- Nationwide (major feast in Rabat)
- Price
- Free (public holiday)
- Official
- www.gov.mt ↗
Last updated:
What to expect
- National public holiday and important religious feast
- Celebrated grandly in Rabat with processions and band marches
- Falls in early spring, often near the carnival/Lent calendar
Planning tips
- Visit Rabat (next to Mdina) for the main celebrations
- Shops and offices close; plan accordingly
- Combine with a visit to the Silent City of Mdina
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.