Public Holidays in Malta in 2024
Malta, a Mediterranean island nation with a rich cultural heritage and vibrant history, celebrates several public holidays throughout the year. These holidays reflect the country’s religious traditions, historical events, and cultural identity. They are occasions for celebration, reflection, and community gatherings, with many businesses, government offices, and schools closed to mark these special days. Below is a comprehensive list and description of the public holidays in Malta for the year 2024.
New Year’s Day – January 1st
New Year’s Day is celebrated worldwide as the first day of the Gregorian calendar year. In Malta, it is a time for gatherings with family and friends, festive meals, and sometimes fireworks displays to welcome the new year with hope and optimism.
Feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck – February 10th
The Feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck commemorates the shipwreck of the Apostle Paul on the island of Malta in 60 AD. It is one of Malta’s most important religious holidays, celebrated with church services, processions, and various cultural events, particularly in Valletta, where St. Paul is believed to have been shipwrecked.
Freedom Day – March 31st
Freedom Day commemorates the withdrawal of British forces from Malta in 1979, marking the end of British military rule and the beginning of Malta’s journey as an independent nation. It is celebrated with patriotic ceremonies, speeches, cultural events, and flag hoisting ceremonies across the country.
Labour Day – May 1st
Labour Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, is dedicated to honoring the contributions of workers and the labor movement. In Malta, this day is celebrated with rallies, parades, and various events organized by trade unions and worker associations.
Sette Giugno (June 7th) – National Day
Sette Giugno, or June 7th, is Malta’s National Day, commemorating the riots of 1919 when Maltese citizens protested against British colonial rule. The riots led to constitutional reforms and paved the way for Malta’s eventual independence. Sette Giugno is observed with ceremonies, patriotic speeches, wreath-laying ceremonies, and cultural events.
Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady – August 15th
The Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady is a religious holiday celebrating the Virgin Mary’s assumption into heaven. It is one of the most important feasts in the Catholic calendar and is observed with church services, processions, and festivities in towns and villages across Malta and Gozo.
Victory Day – September 8th
Victory Day commemorates Malta’s role in World War II and the end of the Siege of Malta in 1943. It honors the bravery and resilience of the Maltese people during the intense bombing campaign by Axis forces. Victory Day is observed with ceremonies, wreath-laying ceremonies, and events honoring veterans and fallen soldiers.
Independence Day – September 21st
Independence Day celebrates Malta’s independence from British colonial rule in 1964. It is one of the most significant national holidays in Malta, marked by patriotic ceremonies, flag hoisting, cultural performances, and fireworks displays. Independence Day evokes a sense of pride and unity among Maltese people, celebrating their hard-won freedom and sovereignty.
Republic Day – December 13th
Republic Day commemorates Malta’s transition from a constitutional monarchy to a republic in 1974. It is a day to celebrate Malta’s republican form of government and its achievements. Republic Day is observed with flag hoisting ceremonies, cultural events, and speeches highlighting the importance of democracy and national unity.
Christmas Day – December 25th
Christmas Day celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is observed by Christians worldwide. In Malta, Christmas is a joyous occasion marked by religious services, nativity scenes, carol singing, and festive meals shared with loved ones. Despite the Mediterranean climate, Christmas in Malta is often characterized by traditional decorations and celebrations.
Conclusion
Malta celebrates a diverse array of public holidays throughout the year, each reflecting the country’s cultural, religious, and historical heritage. These holidays serve as important occasions for Maltese people to come together, celebrate their identity, and honor their traditions. Whether commemorating independence, honoring saints, or observing religious festivals, public holidays in Malta play a significant role in fostering national pride, unity, and cohesion.
| Public Holiday | Date | Days Off | Groups Celebrating |
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 | All |
| Feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck | February 10 | 1 | Catholics, All |
| Freedom Day | March 31 | 1 | All |
| Labour Day | May 1 | 1 | Workers |
| Sette Giugno (National Day) | June 7 | 1 | All |
| Feast of the Assumption | August 15 | 1 | Catholics, All |
| Victory Day | September 8 | 1 | All |
| Independence Day | September 21 | 1 | All |
| Republic Day | December 13 | 1 | All |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 | Christians |