What's On in Malta: April to July 2025
Malta's vibrant cultural calendar offers visitors a wealth of experiences spanning traditional celebrations, musical performances, sporting events, and artistic showcases. From April to July 2025, the Maltese Islands come alive with a diverse array of events that showcase the archipelago's rich heritage and contemporary creativity. There are always new activities and events added the island’s calendar, so let’s talk about your preferences and interests before you decide on dates to visit Malta. Here is some of the information currently available:
Freedom Day Regatta - March 31, Grand Harbour
The biannual Regatta transforms Grand Harbour into a spectacular arena of competitive rowing that honors Malta's naval heritage. Held on Freedom Day, commemorating the 1979 withdrawal of British military forces, this four-hour traditional race features rival rowing clubs competing against the stunning backdrop of Valletta and the Three Cities. Spectators line the waterfronts to cheer on competitors in this centuries-old maritime tradition that perfectly captures Malta's enduring connection to the sea.
Cultural Festivals
Gaulitana: A Festival of Music - April 5 to May 4, 2025
This prestigious month-long celebration of classical music presents its 18th edition with a diverse program of concerts and recitals featuring both international and local artists. The 2025 festival honors the late Stephen Attard, a pioneering figure in Gozitan artistic circles, while offering an eclectic mix of musical styles.
Highlights include Verdi's "Nabucco" on May 3—returning to Malta after a decade—presented during the OPERA+ Weekend with an international cast directed by Enrico Castiglione under Colin Attard's baton. Running parallel to the performances, the GAULearn educational program and an exhibition on 19th-century Maltese music printing aim to inspire younger audiences and enthusiasts alike.
Bir Miftuħ Music Festival - April/May 2025
The medieval chapel of Bir Miftuħ provides an atmospheric setting for four classical music concerts in this festival's 26th edition. Organized by Din l-Art Ħelwa (the National Trust for Malta), performances take place on April 12, April 25, May 2, and May 10. The historic surroundings enhance the musical experience as talented local and international performers fill the ancient stone walls with exhilarating melodies.
Religious and Traditional Celebrations
Holy Week - April 13-20, Various Locations
Malta's Holy Week observations offer visitors a window into the island's profound religious heritage. Towns and villages across the archipelago host elaborate pageants and solemn processions throughout the week. The Good Friday processions stand as the most dramatic events, featuring intricate statues depicting the Passion of Christ carried through narrow streets. Easter Sunday brings a joyful contrast as statue-bearers sprint through village squares carrying figures of the risen Christ, marking a triumphant conclusion to the week's observances.
Festa Season - May to September, Various Locations
Summer in Malta means festa season, with village celebrations happening somewhere almost every weekend. Between May and September, communities across Malta and Gozo honor their patron saints with week-long festivities featuring religious services, elaborately decorated churches, lively street celebrations, marching bands, and spectacular fireworks displays. The feast of Santa Marija (August 15), celebrated in seven different localities, ranks among the largest and was recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2023.
L-Imnarja - June 29, Rabat
This ancient feast honoring Saints Peter and Paul traces its origins to the Roman period, making it one of Malta's oldest celebrations. The event begins with solemn services at Mdina Cathedral before transitioning to lively festivities in Buskett Gardens. There, visitors can experience authentic għana folk music, festa tunes from marching bands, and displays of animals, fresh produce, and traditional crafts that showcase Malta's agricultural heritage.
Sporting Events
Run Gozo - April 27, 2025
This premier running event has evolved from a modest local race with just 35 participants in 1977 to an international attraction drawing over a thousand athletes. The half marathon and 10K routes offer runners a unique perspective on Gozo's stunning landscapes and cultural landmarks. Participants pass iconic sites including Xagħra Square, Xwejni, the Qbajjar Salt Pans, and Ta' Pinu Shrine while experiencing the island's natural beauty and rich heritage.
Artistic Performances
INANNA - Rising of The Goddess of Malta - July 18-20, 2025
This innovative 90-minute multimedia production at Pjazza Teatru Rjal in Valletta promises a spectacular fusion of dance, circus performance, animation projection, and original music. The show brings to life the ancient tale of Inanna, the Sumerian goddess, intertwining her mythology with Malta's rich cultural heritage. An original soundtrack blending Folk Rock and Islamic musical traditions creates a distinctive "East meets West" atmosphere.
The production employs cutting-edge technology including projections and immersive soundscapes to enhance the storytelling experience. A diverse ensemble of dancers, musicians, and multimedia artists explore themes of empowerment, resilience, and the divine feminine against the historic backdrop of Valletta. This powerful narrative offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience both ancient mythology and contemporary artistic expression in one unforgettable performance.