The Maltese Carnival, known as "il-Karnival ta' Malta, or Malta Carnival" is not just a celebration; it is a vibrant tapestry woven from nearly five centuries of rich history and cultural heritage.
This amazing festival invites us to celebrate the joy, creativity, and togetherness that are at the heart of what it means to be Maltese.
Let's dive into the roots and traditions that make this event such an awesome celebration:
A Brief History
Early Beginnings: The Maltese Carnival dates back to at least the mid-15th century. It gained prominence during the rule of Grand Master Piero de Ponte in 1535.
Knights of St. John: The carnival became an official event in Birgu, where knights showcased their skills in pageants and tournaments. However, Grand Master Piero de Ponte had to regulate the festivities due to excessive banquets and masquerades.
Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette: In 1560, he allowed the wearing of masks in public, which was otherwise forbidden. The knights decorated their ships, and the celebrations included music, dance, and rivalry.
Lascaris Ban: In 1639, Grand Master Giovanni Paolo Lascaris prohibited women from wearing masks and participating in balls organized by the knights' auberges. This led to unrest and satire against the Jesuits.
Introduction of Floats: In 1730, the first-ever floats were introduced, led by the Grand Master's carriage. These floats, decorated by the public, added a new dimension to the carnival.
Modern Celebrations
Timing: The carnival is held during the week leading up to Ash Wednesday.
Events: The celebrations feature masked balls, costume parties, and wild mask contests. There are also awesome late-night parties and a lively ticker-tape parade with creative floats led by King Carnival. (Maltese: ir-Re tal-Karnival).
Locations: The celebrations take place across Malta and Gozo, with major events in Valletta and Nadur. Valletta's carnival is family-friendly, while Nadur's is known for being more macabre in nature and is a lot more unruly.
Cultural Significance
🎭 Transformation and Creativity: Carnival masks are vibrant symbols of transformation and creativity, captivating hearts in Malta’s festivities since medieval times and infusing celebrations with magic!
🎉 Community Involvement: The carnival unites locals and visitors in a dazzling atmosphere of colours, music, and exhilarating dance that will leave you breathless!
Malta where and when.
Dates - 28 Feb-04 March 25
Locations - Various
Tickets and venue information here
FAQ's for Malta
Do I need to buy a ticket to enter St George’s Square?
Yes, to enter St George’s square, tickets need to be purchased. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
Can I purchase tickets at St George’s Square with cash?
Yes, both card and cash payment options are available at the door.
Is the arena at St George’s square accessible to wheelchair users?
Yes. There is a special area for wheelchair users in the arena. Persons with a disability, upon the presentation of a valid EU disability card are also entitled to tickets at a concession rate and are entitled to a free companion ticket. To request a free companion ticket, please email Audience Development & Outreach Associate on christian.debono.2@festivals.mt, keeping kristina.polidano@festivals.mt copied in the email.
Can pushchairs enter the arena at St George’s Square?
Pushcairs are not allowed in the arena but can be stowed in a special designated area for pushchair storage.
Can I stand up in the audience section of the arena?
Please make sure to remain seated whilst you are in the arena. Be respectful! Other members of the public want to see the performances as much as you do.
I have another question
Please contact info.fm@festivals.mt
Do children under the age of 3 need to have a ticket?
No. Children under the age of 3 can enter the arena for free, although they are asked to sit on a parent or guardian’s lap during the performances.
Gozo where and when
Carnival in Gozo is celebrated all across the island, in Independence Square, Victoria, and Nadur Square, as well as all across the villages! It's also free for all of the family.
The Nadur Local Council invites you to be part of Gozo's unique event, consisting of the organised carnival on the 23rd of February and the spontaneous carnival between the 28th February and 4th of March 2025.
The organised Carnival involves a packed programme of hilarious costume dances, large and small floats, bands, costumes and masks lot's of masks.
Each year, numerous smaller events accompany Carnival, and some might argue these truly define the overall experience. The Nadur Spontaneous Carnival is distinct because it has no rules! As the sun sets, a throng of masked and hooded figures fills the streets of Nadur, all in costume, of course! It's a must-see if you want to witness the authentic Gozo carnival. This event was once known as the 'Silent Carnival,' since Gozo was so small that people could recognize you by your voice, even in disguise! Therefore, Gozitans would remain silent in their costumes to protect their identities.
In Gozo, get ready for some fun with street parties, lively parades, dancing, and one-of-a-kind performances! The bars spill out onto the streets, and kiosks line the pavements, serving up delicious refreshments all night long. Best of all, these events are free for everyone in the family to enjoy!
Carnival Malta and Gozo is a spectacular event that promises joy, creativity, and community. With its stunning displays and festive ambiance, it is a perfect opportunity to create lasting memories and enjoy the warmth of Maltese hospitality. Don't miss out on this vibrant celebration that brings together history, culture, and fun in a way that only Malta and Gozo can offer.
Comments