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Your guide to a Mediterranean festive season filled with flavour, light, and warmth.
As winter settles over much of Europe, Malta offers something beautifully rare, a Christmas bathed in sunshine, sea air, and timeless charm. Whether you’re planning a short winter escape or a longer seaside stay, this season brings culture, celebration, and that special Maltese warmth that makes every moment feel magical.

Discover Malta’s Christmas Spirit

Christmas in Malta is celebrated with sincerity, community, and joy. Across the islands, towns transform into glowing festive villages filled with lights, markets, and carols. Wander through artisan stalls, sip mulled wine, and sample traditional treats like qagħaq tal-għasel (honey rings). You’ll also spot beautifully crafted presepji (nativity cribs) displayed in homes, churches, and even shop windows – one of Malta’s most beloved holiday traditions.

If you’re here on Christmas Eve, attend a Midnight Mass in Valletta or St. Julian’s – an experience that blends music, candlelight, and community spirit.

Christmas Markets & Festive Events

Here are some of the island’s top festive markets and events this season:

  • Woodland Christmas Market – Ta’ Qali National Park
    6–14 December 2025
    Eco-friendly gifts, local artisans, and family activities in a festive forest setting.
  • Natalis Notabilis – Rabat Christmas Village
    5–14 December 2025
    A traditional-style market with crafts, mulled wine, and a live nativity trail through Rabat’s historic streets.
  • Fairyland / Santa’s City – Valletta & Floriana
    5 December 2025 – 4 January 2026
    The heart of Malta’s “Christmas in the Capital” celebrations, complete with wooden chalets, an ice rink, and a Ferris wheel overlooking the harbour.
  • Malta Artisan Christmas Market – Palazzo Parisio, Naxxar
    21 December 2025
    Handmade gifts, gourmet bites, and a touch of elegance in a stunning heritage setting.
  • International Christmas Fair – St. Julian’s (InterContinental Hotel)
    23 November 2025
    Over 50 stalls from around the world supporting the Migrant Women Association Malta 
  • Christmas in Mdina
    Experience the Christmas at the Museum event at Vilhena Palace, carol concerts in St. Paul’s Cathedral, and intricate crib exhibits displayed by the Benedictine nuns – all wrapped in the timeless beauty of Malta’s Silent City.

Festive Dining at Hotel Juliani

This season, Hotel Juliani brings festive flavour to every occasion from relaxed afternoon teas to special Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Festive Dining with Zest Restaurant

During the festive season, Zest will be offering a selection of catering menus perfect for office gatherings, home celebrations, and private events. For New Year’s Eve, Zest will also host a special NYE dinner, featuring its signature Michelin-recommended flavours to welcome the year in style.

View Zest Festive Menus

Café Juliani Festive Offerings

At Café Juliani, guests can enjoy a cosy and seasonal Festive Afternoon Tea, featuring sweet and savoury holiday treats. Café Juliani will also serve a Christmas Day Lunch, ideal for families and friends looking to celebrate in a relaxed yet elegant setting.

 View Café Juliani Festive Menus

Wrap Up the Perfect Gift … A Juliani Experience

Gifting has never been easier. With our Hotel Juliani online vouchers, you can now purchase beautifully presented digital gift vouchers in just a few clicks. Choose from boutique hotel stays, Zest dining experiences, or flexible monetary vouchers  all delivered instantly to your inbox. Whether for Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, or simply to say “thank you,” a Juliani experience is the perfect way to make someone feel truly special.

Explore the full collection here: https://hotel-juliani.vouchercart.com/app/

Experience the Magic from Hotel Juliani

Our boutique seafront setting in St. Julian’s places you at the heart of Malta’s festivities close to Valletta’s lights, Sliema’s shopping, and Gozo’s rural charm.

Wake up to calm sea views, enjoy the warmth of our family-run hospitality, and let the festive season unfold around you in Mediterranean style.

Reserve your winter escape at Hotel Juliani and experience the beauty of a Maltese Christmas by the sea.