Before you continue reading, just grab your diary and a pen and take note of these fantastic events happening in Malta till the end of the year. Some of the events are now fixed in the Maltese calendar, whilst others are relatively new or differ depending on the time of year.
1. Fort Manoel Open Day – September 2019
Fort Manoel will be open to the public on 15.09.2019 and entrance is free. Fort Manoel is situated on Manoel Island, Gzira and is a star shaped fort which dates back to the 18th centuary. It was built by the Order of St John, under the reign of Grand Master Manoel de Vilhena.
The fort has recently undergone restoration works, therefore it is definitely worth a visit. The children will enjoy running around and playing knights and princesses.
2. Eco Market Malta – September 2019
The Eco Market Malta is happening between the 20.09.2019 – 22.09.2019 and will be held at The Gaia Foundation in Ghajn Tuffieha (next to Golden Bay) during the Bubble Festival.
As the name implies, this is an eco-friendly event, where you can find handmade crafts, beauty products and other eco-friendly items. The Eco Market Malta is part of The Bubble Festival, a festival that celebrates contemporary art and music. For those who love camping, you can also camp during this Festival.
The proceeds from the events go towards environmental and humanitarian causes.
3. Żejt iż-Żejtun – September 2019
Żejt iż-Żejtun is another event that has become a fixed appointment in the Maltese calendar. This year’s edition will be held on 28th September 2019. This Festival celebrates the start of the olive-picking season and pressing oil.
The southeast of Malta, was well known for olive tree cultivation. Olive oil was used during the daily household routines. Your children will definitely enjoy watching the blessing of olives carried by local farmers, followed by pressing. You can also enjoy some free tasting of the Maltese ftajjar dressed with freshly pressed olive oil.
Żejt iż-Żejtun, Żejtun
4. Science in the City – September 2019
The 2019 edition of Science in the City (European Researchers Night) will be held on 27th September from 0600pm – till midnight. The event will be held in Valletta.
This event definitely makes learning fun with its fusion between science and art. There will be a number interactive installations, exhibitions, music, shadow puppet shows, live experiments, treasure hunt for all ages and much much more.
5. Notte Bianca – October 2019
Notte Bianca is one of the largest activities and throughout the years has become a favorite event with the Maltese. The 2019 edition will be held on 5th October and is held in Valletta.
During this special evening the enchanting city of Valletta comes to light, with various activities held around the city. Activities are held throughout the streets and piazzas, museums are open, with some having special exhibits and all this for free.
There is something for everyone – adults and children. If you and your family want to dine during Notte Biance, make sure to book a table because it will be very busy. The city will be buzzing with people, so take the necessary measures so as not to loose your children and/or other family members.
6. Birgufest (Birgu by Candlelight) – October 2019
Birgufest is held in one of the oldest cities on the Maltese islands. Birgu is situated in the south of Malta, but for this annual event people come from all over the island make their way. This year’s edition is held from the 11th October to 13th October 2019.
Your children will definitely enjoy the atmosphere of walking around this historical city, all lit with candlelight. The houses are beautifully lit, and chandeliers are hang up in the streets. The Museums are open at discounted prices and music echoes throughout the historical streets of Birgu.
Birgufest is definitely worth a visit. Take your time and enjoy some traditional Maltese food as well.
7. Kite & Wind Festival – October 2019
If you have not been in Gozo for quite a while, then you can take the opportunity to visit for this Festival. The Kite & Wind Festival will be held between 19th October – 21st October 2019, in Gharb, Gozo, near the San Dimitri Chapel.
Nowadays, we don’t see so many kites in the sky and this festival is all about bringing back the joys of flying a kite. Your children will definitely be in awe at seeing all those kites at one go. They can also experience kite flying as well, and participate in workshops, so make sure you do not miss on this opportunity.
8. The Hamrun Chocolate Festival – October 2019
This is for all the chocolate lovers – a festival entirely dedicated to Chocolate. This Festival is happening in the streets of Hamrun, on the 26th October 2019.
It is said, that during the reign of Gran Master Perellos cocoa beans were stored in Hamrun, in an area known as tas-Samra. During this festival, your children will be mesmerized with the sculptures made entirely out of chocolate. You can learn about past traditions of chocolate making and how nowadays this has changed.
During the Chocolate Festival, not only you can enjoy learning from the professionals but you can also buy some treats to take home with you.
9. Malta Comic Con – November 2019
The Malta Comic Con will be held between the 2nd and 3rd November 2019 at the Malta Fairs & Conventions Centre Ta` Qali.
If your children have just started enjoying reading comics, then you cannot miss out this event. Held over two days, you can enjoy various stalls selling comics, authors and international artists showcasing their work.
Children will love meeting some of their favorite comic characters as they go round the exhibition area. Many of the characters are people who are enthusiasts and decide to dress us as their favorite comic character.
10. The Malta Book Festival – November 2019
Another annual cultural event, is the Malta Book Festival. This year’s edition will be held from the 6th – 10th November 2019 at the Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta.
This event is visited by over 40,000 people and over 40 exhibitors participate. During this Festival you can find a variety of books, including for your little ones.
The scope of the Festival is not only to encourage literacy and reading but also to bring together local and foreign authors. Entry to the Malta Book Festival is free of charge and is open in the morning and evening. During the weekend it is open all day, making it very convenient to visit with all the family.
11. Vitori by Cirque du Soleil – November 2019
For the 40th anniversary of the Mediterranean Conference Centre, Cirque du Soleil will present an exclusive and live performance.
The event will be held between the 27th November to 20th December 2019. It is definitely an event to attend with all the family, especially since it is being held during the festive season.
12. Valletta Waterfront
The Valletta Waterfront, has in the recent years been brought back to life and now families can enjoy some good quality time, whilst enjoying lunch and/or dinner in one of the restaurants.
Throughout the year, the Valletta Waterfront offers free children entertainment to all those who visit. Your children can enjoy face painting, balloon modeling and much more. During the summer months, activities are held from 0730pm onwards, however during the winter months on Sundays and Public Holidays entertainment starts at 1230pm till 0430pm
Depending on the seasons, various activities are held for you to enjoy with your children – the month of October will be October Ahoy!, followed by Halloween and the Christmas Season.
If on the other hand you happen to be at the Valletta Waterfront and there are no activities going go, you can still enjoy to view of the Grand Harbour and if lucky there is a cruise ship, which you children you definitely enjoy looking at it.
13. Grammy Reads
At the Central Public Library in Floriana, the Grammy Reads sessions will return as from October 2019. These sessions are aimed at children aged 4 – 6 years and are held on Fridays between 4pm – 5pm. No booking is required. These free story telling sessions are held in English.
14. 2020 Events not to be missed
Two events which you definitely do not have to miss in 2020, are the Annual Malta International Fireworks Festival which is normally held towards the end of April, beginning of May and the Malta Robotics Olympiad which will be held between 15th – 17th May 2020 and will mark the 10th edition.
