Gozo is a winter wonderland - parades, markets, concerts, cribs, dining, countryside walks, and festive traditions
Christmas in Gozo encompasses so many aspects, but rest assured, the vibe is authentic. Here are 10 great reasons to visit and enjoy the island during the Christmas season.
1.Stepping into the Season – Parades and Christmas Markets
Christmas parades are not a typical Gozitan event, but the colourful, joyous parades by various dance schools and troupes have now become a staple, serving as harbingers of the season. While the main parade takes place in Victoria, other localities organise parades, cosy street festivities, and bustling Christmas markets. The feelings of togetherness and festive cheer are at the core of the village stalls, often congregated in the village square, where they sell crafts, gifts, Christmas decorations, and typical foods of the season. These events, attended by many Gozitan artisans, including jewellery makers, ornament creators, and artists, often offer the opportunity to acquire genuine, one-of-a-kind gifts.
When it comes to faith and devotion, the churches around the island are the pulsating heart of the feast. All parish churches are typically decorated with nativity scenes. As the days of the month roll on and Christmas approaches, the churches’ decor becomes more festive, with Christmas floral arrangements and traditional cribs. The season’s peak begins during the Novena, as the church leaves Advent behind and focuses more on the approaching Christmas. The last addition is the statue of Baby Jesus, traditionally taken out during the Christmas Eve Mass. The midnight mass is a joyful service, with some villages including procession, carol singing and a sermon delivered by a young boy. Often, the services end with community celebrations on the church parvis, with everyone exchanging Christmas greetings before heading home to open presents!
December is also the time for two winter feasts on the island. 8th December, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, celebrated at the Franciscan Church in Victoria, is similar to the summer feasts, complete with special liturgies, processions, band marches, and fireworks. Traditionally, 8th December signalled the onset of the colder season and the donning of winter apparel. The quaint feast of Saint Lucy, Virgin and Martyr, celebrated at the hamlet of Santa Lucia on the 13th December, is a feast of light. It is a moment of deep devotion and cultural significance that ropes in solemn masses, a procession, dazzling fireworks displays, and a parade of young girls robed in white and red, carrying candles. Entrusted with a special role, one of the girls wears a crown of candles on her head, representing the saint’s virtues.
Festive cheer is taken to the next level with a string of classical concerts, choir performances, carol singing and performances by local bands and local artists. Often held in churches, the harmony of Christmas music is a fundamental part of creating an atmosphere of joy and holiday spirit. Other shows take place in theatres or outside venues. Some evoke the elegance of the feast, others are shrouded in the mystery of the nativity, and others are all about fun and cheering.
Cribs are a big thing on the island, and it isn’t easy to find a local family without a crib or a nativity scene. Traditionally built from small rustic stones or crafted from papier-mache or other materials, the crib can take any size or style and depends on the whims of the builder. On the island, some crib builders https://visitgozo.com/2024/04/03/a-crib-makers-story-a-meeting-with-giovann-cassar/ are renowned for their artistry and ingenuity, but even schoolchildren build simpler nativity scenes. In December, many cribs are on display, and some organisations hold exhibitions. The spirit of crib making is a long-loved tradition on the island, and one can even attend workshops that explain tradition, creativity and even hands-on learning.
In its sixteenth edition, the living nativity experience, Bethlehem’s F’Għajnsielem, needs no introduction with the Maltese and Gozitans. The famous living nativity village, with actors, live animals, traditional crafts and food stalls, recreates the story of Christmas in a unique and picturesque setting. On this spot, nature itself seems to have shaped a landscape perfect for this culturally immersive portrayal of the nativity scene.
For comedy and fun, check out the pantomimes and shows in theatres and community centres. Family-friendly shows with music, comedy and festive themes make up for a great night out. You might even manage to watch one of the Christmas-themed movies screened at the cinema.
Traditional Christmas fare on the island is a sweet feast of honey rings (qagħaq tal-għasel) and date pastries (imqaret), complemented by roasted chestnuts, festive fruit cakes, and nougat. Mulled wine, typically served after the midnight mass, local liquors, and the traditional imbuljuta (a chestnutty drink) add warmth, nostalgia and a delicious festive touch.
Winter dining takes on a celebratory feel during the holiday season, with many restaurants offering festive menus and special seasonal dishes to complement the setting. Check out the village-square cafes and bistros, or the seaside restaurants that might still provide outdoor dining, weather permitting. Many places are usually hectic this time of year, so one key tip is to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Gozo’s countryside glows with the hues of winter. Misty mornings, sunny days (with a dose of cloudy ones) and brilliant sunsets are all part of the winter displays. Countryside walks are about absorbing the colours, the calm vibe, and breathing in the crisp air. As you wander about, you’ll probably catch sight of clusters of flowering Narcissus, a beautiful species that is protected by Maltese law, and perhaps even glimpse a robin, one of winter’s most charming little visitors. Photography enthusiasts will find endless inspiration in the sweeping panoramic views and the intricate macro details of the Gozitan countryside.
Christmas in Gozo is magical just as much as it is peaceful, and it’s bursting at the seams with events. As you plan your time in Gozo during the Christmas season, make sure you check, which is the most comprehensive platform for events on the island.
Discovering the island, its landmarks and its sights is an absolute joy, especially for Christmas lovers. Dressing up warmly for winter strolls and outdoor events is recommended. Combining sightseeing, visiting markets, attending concerts and performances, dining out, and heading out to the countryside will definitely make for a full festive Gozitan experience, and don’t forget to acquire typical seasonal sweets to share with family and friends back home!
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