As Malta embraces the winter chills amongst its sunny days, you’ll see the island start to transform into a massive Christmas village. From early November all the way to the New Year, the Maltese islands sparkle with festive lights, and the scent of mulled wine and imbuljuta (a drink of chestnuts cooked in a spiced hot chocolate mix) fills the air. This is the season for Christmas markets—a time-honoured tradition where local and international communities come together to celebrate, shop, and enjoy the magic of the holidays.
Whether you’re searching for unique handmade gifts, craving festive treats, or simply looking to soak up the joyful atmosphere with your family, Malta’s Christmas markets offer something for everyone. Below we offer you with a rundown of the must-visit markets lighting up the islands in November and December 2025.
Kickstarting the Festive Season: November Highlights
The festive spirit begins to stir in November with a wonderful mix of community bazaars and artisan fairs. These are perfect for getting a head start on your Christmas shopping.
Christmas Bazaar in aid of Dar Tal-Providenza (Siġġiewi)
Starting as early as Friday, 7th November, and running every weekend until the 30th November, this heartwarming bazaar is a true community effort. Held at Dar Tal-Providenza, it features handmade gifts, homemade bakes, and festive decorations, all in support of a wonderful cause.
International Christmas Fair (St. Julian’s)
On Sunday, 23rd November, the Intercontinental Malta hosts a vibrant gathering of Malta’s international community. Here you can enjoy handmade crafts, festive treats, and carols in a warm, friendly atmosphere.
Klaus Percopu’s Village (Ħal Kirkop)
On Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November, the village of Kirkop is transformed into a holiday destination. You can meet Klaus Percopu, enjoy kids’ activities, and even catch a surprise snowfall in the square.
A Weekend of Markets (Saturday, 29th November)
This is a big day for market lovers! You can choose between:
- The Selfmade Market (Valletta): Discover new and upcoming creatives at Pjazza Jean de La Valette between 10am and 5pm, showcasing everything from artworks and crochet to handmade jewellery and baked goods.
- Winter Wonderland (Qala, Gozo): Find handmade cards, jewellery, candles, and chocolates at the charming Dar ta’ Żeppi B&B.
- Attard Christmas Village (Attard): The Attard Parish Centre hosts artisan stalls, festive foods, live music, and Santa photo opportunities for a perfect family day out.
- A Super Sunday (Sunday, 30th November): Close off the month of November with even more markets:
Christmas Market in Gozo (Victoria)
The beautiful Villa Rundle Gardens begins its festive run, with artisan stalls offering handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats.
The Wignacourt Museum Christmas Market (Rabat)
Here you can shop for local crafts in a stunning historical courtyard, all in aid of the FIDEM Foundation.
The Hilltop Gardens Christmas Artisan Market (Naxxar)
A family-friendly craft market full of handmade gifts, jewellery, and ceramics, with on-site dining and mulled wine.
The Heart of the Festivities: December’s Dazzling Line-Up
While November is the month where you start feeling the Christmas spirit, December is when the Christmas market scene in Malta reaches its peak. During this month you’ll experience large-scale villages and magical trails appearing across the islands.
Fairyland Santa’s City (Valletta/Floriana)
From Friday, 5th December, Malta’s capital is transformed into a festive wonderland. This is the biggest initiative organised on the island, complete with several rides, an ice rink, a Ferris wheel, and a bustling market with wooden chalets selling local crafts, hot chocolate, and mulled wine. It runs all the way until 4th January.
Natalis Notabilis (Rabat)
Running from the 5th to the 14th of December, this is yet another big Christmas village initiative in Malta, attracting over 80,000 visitors. St. Paul’s Street and its adjacent lanes are lined with stalls selling local food and crafts, and the event features a nativity trail, crib exhibitions, and choral concerts. A free Park & Ride is available.
The Magical Illuminated Trail & Christmas Village (Buskett)
From Saturday, 5th December, the grounds of Verdala Palace become an enchanting world of light. You can walk through a trail of giant lanterns and themed scenes, and after you can explore the Christmas Village for crafts, street food, and a visit to Santa’s grotto. (Note: This is a ticketed event).
Woodland Wonderland Christmas Market (Ta’ Qali)
From Saturday 6th to Sunday 14th December, the National Park in Ta’ Qali hosts a unique eco-friendly market. It’s a fantastic place to find sustainable gifts and support young artisans and mini-entrepreneurs. This event puts children at the centre stage, giving them the opportunity to sell their crafted goods as well.
Gozo’s Village Squares
Throughout December, Gozo’s villages come alive with festive charm. Here you can experience:
- Christmas in Ta’ Sannat (6th-7th Dec)
- Merħba Milied in Ta’ Kerċem (7th Dec)
- Żmien il-Milied Flimkien in Ix-Xagħra (7th Dec)
- Milied Flimkien in Il-Qala (12th-14th Dec)
- Christmas in the Square in Xewkija (12th-14th Dec)
A Crafty Christmas Market (Sliema)
On the weekend of 13th & 14th December, POPP Social Club will host its first-ever Christmas market in Pjazza tal-Lunzjata. Here you can expect a cosy village of creators, designers, vintage finds, and proper Christmas street food alongside mulled wine.
This Is Your Call To Plan Your Festive Adventure
- Entrance: The vast majority of Malta’s Christmas markets offer free entrance, with larger attractions like Fairyland and the Illuminated Trail operating on a pay-per-ride or ticketed basis.
- Getting there: For larger events like Natalis Notabilis, always check for free Park & Ride services to avoid the hassle of parking.
- Support local: This is the perfect opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting local artisans, makers, and community causes.
So grab your scarf and pack an umbrella, gather your friends and family, and get ready to explore the festive magic on the Maltese Islands. From the grand spectacles in Valletta and Rabat to the intimate village squares of Gozo, the spirit of Christmas is waiting to be discovered.
