If you are lucky enough to be in Malta this week, don’t miss out on the legendary Carnival!
Dating back to the 16th century from the Knights of Saint John, the Maltese carnival is celebrated this year from February the 28th to March 4th, five days preceding Ash Wednesday.
An outburst of colours, costumes and floats
If you are not familiar with the Maltese carnival, chances are you will be astonished by the wonderful and vibrant spirit of this event. You will witness elaborate costumes, colourful floats, dancing children, and have an opportunity to experience new food and drinks, while being in a joyful environment.
The floats are a tradition passed on from one generation to another in Malta. They usually carry costumed people dancing aboard and represent a wide variety of things, such as funny people, caricatures, creatures, fictional characters, animals, dragons, clowns or knights.
Where to go to enjoy one of the best events in Malta?
For centuries, Maltese people and visitors have flooded the streets and corners of Malta, wearing joyful clothing and celebrating the tradition. Although the carnival is mostly celebrated in three main places (Valetta, Floriana and Nadur in Gozo), the entire island brings joy and fun outside and come celebrate together in streets, squares, homes and schools.
Different atmospheres & fun for everyone
Depending on where you decide to go, you will find different moods and a different kind of people.
Valetta: Family-oriented, children friendly environment. Floats, costumed children, marching bands, costumed band groups
Floriana: Closing Carnival Parade on Tuesday, March 4th, followed by fireworks
Nadur (Gozo): Largely adult crown in a exuberant and macabre mood. Out of the ordinary and wild, the Gozo celebrations often depict strange, creative and grotesque costumes.
Paceville: Bring the fun and colours of the carnival to bars and clubs and dance the night away (18+)
Don’t miss out
The Maltese carnival is also known for its food, especially the famous ‘Prinjolata’, a rounded shaped cake made from pastry biscuits and pine nuts, covered with Italian meringue and topped with chocolate and candied cherries.
What you need to know to enjoy the Carnival in Malta
When? | From February 28th to March 4th |
Where? | Mostly Valetta, Floriana & Nadur (Gozo) |
How to go to Floriana? | From Sliema Ferries 4, take bus 12 or 13 to Floriana and stop at Publiju |
How to go to Valetta? | Either take bus 12 or 13 from Ferries 4 and stop at the main bus terminus in Valetta or take the boat from Sliema Ferries and climb your way up to Valetta’s city centre |
How to go to Nadur, Gozo? | – From Sliema Ferries 5, take bus 222 to Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal
– Take the boat to Gozo – From the Gozo ferry terminal, take bus 322 or 303 to the bus stop Hida |
To see the full program of the 2014 carnival, click here
Have a wonderful carnival week in Malta!
Want to share your experience of the Maltese 2014 carnival? Post on our Facebook page or send a short email/picture at marketing@inlinguamalta.com