December Newsletter
Must-Attend Events in Malta This December
Have yourself a Merry Little (Happening in Malta) Christmas!
Happening in Malta readers, holiday season is finally upon us and we couldn’t be more excited. We’ve narrowed down the top events taking place this month, so you don’t have to. Get ready to grab your coats, mark your calendars, and enjoy some of the most exciting cultural events Malta has to offer this December.
Fieri – Cirque du soleil
Inspired by the cultural roots of Malta, Fieri by Cirque du Soleil promises to be a true holiday spectacle. Described as ‘a rallying tale of resilience from the heart of the Mediterranean’, patrons can expect the typical acrobatic display that the troupe are known for with an added Maltese flare. And if that wasn’t enough to convince you to attend, Malta will actually be the first place in the world to host a new Cirque Du Soleil production, post-pandemic. Don’t miss it!
Il-Qfil u l-Ħelsien Skont Manwel Dimech – Teatru Malta
Running off the back of their latest theatrical success, O, Teatru Malta is back with another production set to honour a heroic household name – this time Manwel Dimech. The piece will be staged in the old military prison in Corradino. So, if you’re passionate about Maltese history and love a gritty walk-through, site-specific, theatrical experience, this production could be for you. With original music by Kris Spiteri, a new script and direction by Victor Jacono, and a stellar cast, this promises to be a significant event in the Teatru Malta calendar.
Weaving Chaos – Zfin Malta
Our national dance company, Zfin Malta, returns to the Manoel Theatre stage this December with their latest production, Weaving Chaos. Inspired by the classic text Homer’s Odyssey and choreographed by Portuguese choreographer Tânia Carvalho, the contemporary dance piece will explore ‘the stubbornness, pain, and will of the epic hero returning home’. Zfin Malta never fails to deliver, so we’d say this one is definitely worth your time and attention.
Djun
On 3 and 4 December, Maltese alternative band, Djun, will perform songs off their latest EP, Kometi, at the St Aloysious College Theatre, Birkirkara. The band is a well-respected staple on the local music scene, and it’s easy to see why. With songs like ‘Il-post vicin tax-xatt’ and ‘X’inhoss meta nkun hdejk’, the band is guaranteed to pull at your heart strings and make you feel things you didn’t even know you felt. Watch them live to experience their melancholic melodies in person.
Listen to their music on Spotify here.
Divine Sinners at Hole in the Wall
If you consider yourself more of an obscure indie music fan, then get yourself to Hole in The Wall (Sliema) and check out the fresh low-fi sounds of Gozitan band, Divine Sinners.
Fun fact: Hole in the Wall is said to be the oldest bar in Sliema, dating all the way back to 1922!
Listen to their music on Spotify here.
Stand-Up at Storeroom
Located in the heart of the Ta’ Xbiex waterfront, Storeroom has racked up a reputation as the place to be for emerging artists and creatives. With a diverse event calendar featuring some of Malta’s most exciting local musical talent, up-and-coming comedians, and more, Storeroom is worth a visit. This month, they’re hosting an evening of stand-up comedy and we can’t wait – ticket information below.
Fairyland
I mean, what is Christmas without a Christmas market, right? This year, the Fairyland Christmas Market is back and better than ever with more mulled wine, family activities, and Christmas stalls for you to explore. The market is located right at the entrance of Valletta (by the Triton fountain) so you really can’t miss it. Go on, have a wander and get into the holiday spirit – don’t be a Grinch.
Bonus – entrance is completely free.
The Nice Things Market
“Have you started your Christmas shopping yet?” – If this question alone fills you with dread (so much to do, so little time), we might have a solution for you. For a wide selection of locally produced bits and bobs, head on down to Is-Suq Tal-Belt on 11 and 12 December for the Nice Things Market.
It’s no secret that small businesses have suffered during the pandemic. So why not do your bit and support local this year? The Nice Things Market will display a wide line-up of roughly 50 stallholders ‘across homewares, art prints, fashion accessories, jewellery, ceramics, stationery, lifestyle products and gifts for kids.’ So, you’re bound to find something for everyone.
Visit the Ghajnsielem Crib, Gozo
You’ve probably already gathered that most Maltese traditions revolve around the Catholic Church, and Christmas traditions are no different. If you’d like to experience the typical Maltese art of crib-making first-hand, why not visit some of the hand-made cribs on the island? You can find them scattered all over the place and you might even be able to spot some Maltese staples like prickly pears and Luzzu boats in their construction! Possibly the largest crib in the country, however, finds its home in Ghajnsielem, Gozo.
Did someone say ‘day trip to the sister island?’ I think so.