Apart from its natural beauty, Malta is a country that truly loves to celebrate special moments, and the Malta’s carnival is another one of these. Malta’s Carnival is an explosion of colour, music, and tradition that captivates both locals and visitors alike.
The celebrations around the carnival period in Malta find their roots in centuries-old customs. In fact, when participating in Malta’s carnival, you will witness festivities that blend history, satire, and entertainment in a truly unforgettable celebration. Whether you’re a child or an adult, you will definitely enjoy bearing witness to Malta’s carnival.
Below we will explore some fascinating facts that make Malta’s Carnival a must-experience event:
1. A Celebration with Deep Historical Roots
Malta Carnival dates back to the 15th century. It became more popular through the extravagant masquerades and banquets that the Knights of St. John used to organise in the 1530s. The tradition passed on through generations, even surviving through the British occupation in the 19th century.
Throughout the decades, it grew and evolved into the carnival of today, a celebration full of colour, talent and entertainment.
2. The Meaning Behind the Name
The word “Carnival” comes from the Latin word “carnivore”. This literally means “meat allowed.” With its deep Roman Catholic roots, the carnival period used to serve as the last indulgence in meat and sweets before the fasting period of Lent starts.
3. Malta’s Carnival: A Five-Day Extravaganza
The Carnival in Malta typically runs for five days, in February or early March, leading up to Ash Wednesday. It takes place mainly in Valletta but extends to other parts of Malta and Gozo. The Carnival in Valletta as well as the spontaneous Carnival in Nadur, Gozo are happening between the 28 February and the 4 March. Furthermore, the spontaneous Carnival in Ħal Għaxaq is being held between the 2 and 4 March.
4. A Feast for the Eyes Featuring Massive Floats
One of the major highlights of the Maltese Carnival is the spectacular, brightly coloured floats made predominantly of papier-mâché. These floats often feature comical and satirical designs, sometimes poking fun at political figures both local, and international, as well as pop icons, and more. Some floats even feature built-in sound systems, with DJs performing live music as they parade through the streets.
5. A Competitive Spirit
Float-building is taken very seriously in Malta. There are companies that go through months of meticulous planning and craftsmanship. They all participate in a competition that grades them based on size, craftsmanship, theme, entertainment, backstory and more. The overall winner wins a sum of money as well as the honour of producing the following year’s carnival’s “Re tal-Karnival” float. This translates to “The King of the Carnival”. You can take a look at the floats that are featuring in this year’s carnival from here.
6. There is no Carnival Without a Dance Spectacle
Each float is accompanied by dance performances, with troupes dressed in dazzling costumes as part of the competition.
7. Malta’s Carnival: Satire at Its Best
In Malta, the Carnival period is a time where playful mockery is encouraged. Starting from grotesque masks and exaggerated floats, all of these elements highlight the festival’s satirical spirit. At times, even offering a lighthearted critique of society and politics.
8. Nadur Carnival & Ħal Għaxaq: The Spontaneous Counterparts
The Nadur Carnival in Gozo and the Ħal Għaxaq Carnival in the southern part of Malta are infamous for their bizarre and eerie costumes. Unlike the structured festival in Valletta, this celebration is in theory unplanned, hence the name “spontaneous” making it an unpredictable and exciting experience.
9. A Special Event for Children
The festival in Valletta isn’t just for adults! In fact, in Malta there is a lot of work done in order to give the opportunity to younger participants to dress up and have fun. In several villages as well as in schools, there are Carnival themed events organised, giving children the opportunity to dress up and have fun.
10. The Summer Carnival
For those who miss the February celebrations, Malta also hosts a Summer Carnival in August. Although on a smaller scale, this Carnival also brings the same energy and vibrancy to the island’s warm season.
11. Traditional Delicacies
If you read about Malta or have already visited in the past, you know that the Maltese have a delicious treat or dish associated with every festive period. In fact, Carnival wouldn’t be complete without its signature treats:
- Prinjolata – a dome-shaped cake topped with meringue and cherries.
- Perlini – sugar-coated almonds.
12. The Historical Parata Dance
One of the festival’s oldest traditions is known as Il-Parata. This is a symbolic dance reenacting the victory of the Knights of St. John against the Ottomans in 1565. The dance culminates with a young girl being lifted, symbolising Malta’s triumph.
13. The Theatrical Qarćilla
Another quirky element of Malta’s Carnival is known as Il-Qarċilla. This poetic farce, dates back to the 18th century, and humorously narrates a marriage contract.
14. Malta’s Carnival: A Fusion of Old and New
While still deeply rooted in tradition, the Malta Carnival continues to evolve year upon year. It incorporates modern music, dance, and technology, making it an event that bridges past and present through creative storytelling.
An Experience That Should Not Be Missed
With its blend of history, creativity, and festive cheer, the Malta Carnival is truly an experience like no other. Whether you’re keen on seeing all of the dazzling floats, the entertaining dances, or the delicious treats, this celebration is a must-visit for any culture lover.
And as the Maltese say, “Viva Viva l-Karnival”!
