Gozo Cultural Calendar 2018

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.VISITGOZO.COM

GOZO

A Cultural Guide to 2018 Events www.visitgozo.com

1

Carnival Carnival is a colourful and fun celebration in Gozo.

For five consecutive days, the island’s intense, natural Mediterranean blue and green are rivalled by the vibrant colours of carnival costumes and floats that meander through the main towns and villages in upbeat mood.

Join the locals for five days of revelry, with young and old dressing up in intricate costumes or grotesque masks.

Follow the Rabat parades with their floats and rhythmic dance for pure family fun. For an extravagant take on carnival, Nadur village is the unmissable choice. This carnival stems from village tradition and is essentially spontaneous. Here, the purpose of costumes is disguise.

Join the party, in a palpable atmosphere of authentic, local fun!

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9 – 13 February

Photo by Hush Studios; Cover Photo by Daniel Cilia

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3

Gozo Faith & Traditions Easter time in Gozo is deeply rooted in religious tradition.

The solemn, religious rituals during Lent and the Easter weekend, are fascinating for any visitor. On the weeks preceding Easter, Gozo becomes a hub of activities in preparation for the Good Friday processions and pageants, which provide real life re-enactments of the passion of Christ. The pealing of church bells on Easter Sunday on the 1st April heralds the celebration of the Resurrection of Christ. An exuberant mood prevails in villages where groups of bearers wearing the kunfratija, carry the statue of Christ along the streets, to the lively tunes of band marches. These celebrations intertwine with local life and traditions and offer the visitor an authentic experience of Gozo.

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3 March – 1 April

Photo by Shaun Sultana

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5

Gaulitana Festival of Music Bellini’s opera Norma will be staged at Teatru Aurora, as the highlight of the Gaulitana Festival of Music. With its extraordinary fusion of sublime melody, vocal challenge, and dramatic power, Norma will enthrall audiences.

It examines an ageless and archetypal situation: a powerful woman compromises her ideals for love, only to find herself betrayed by her lover. Directed by Enrico Castiglione, with costumes designed by Sonia Cammarata, Norma will be under the musical direction of Colin Attard who will conduct the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra and the Gaulitanus Choir. www.gaulitanus.com

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1 – 29 April

Photo by Shaun Sultana

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7

GOZO ALIVE 19 May

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A culture filled day and evening, that will alight Gozo and delight visitors. Bands, musical performances, reenactments, fireworks, art exhibitions, dance, short film screening and guided tours – a programme of events that will surely entertain and present Gozo in a unique, exciting way for everyone to enjoy.

Photo by CVC Media

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9

Festi

27 May: 3 Jun: 10 June: 17 Jun: 24 Jun: 29 Jun: 8 Jul: 15 Jul: 22 Jul: 29 Jul: 5 Aug: 12 Aug: 15 Aug: 19 Aug: 26 Aug: 8 Sep: 16 Sep:

Feast Feast Feast Feast Feast Feast Feast Feast Feast Feast Feast Feast Feast Feast Feast Feast Feast

of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of

St. Paul, Munxar Corpus Christi, Għasri St. Anthony, Għajnsielem the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Fontana St. John the Baptist, Xewkija St. Peter and St. Paul, Nadur Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Kerċem St. George, Victoria St. Margaret, Sannat the Visitation, Għarb St. Joseph, Qala St. Lawrence, San Lawrenz the Assumption of Our Lady, Victoria the Assumption of Our Lady, Żebbuġ Our Lady of Loreto, Għajnsielem Our Lady of Victories, Xagħra Our Lady of Graces, Victoria

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Are you in Gozo this summer? Festi are a unique way to experience local traditions, religious celebrations and a festive way of life eased by the long and warm summer days.

Festi are about patron saints leading sombre processions, beautifully decorated churches and then lights, sounds and fireworks, as communities come together for a yearly celebration that awes visitors. Join a local festa between May and September and live Gozo the authentic way!

Photo by CVC Media

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11

21st Edition of the Victoria International Arts Festival Victoria International Arts Festival has established itself as the longest-running festival of its kind on the islands, with events spanning five weeks between June and July.

For the 21st edition, the organisers will be presenting 40 concerts. Both the opening and the closing concerts will be performed by the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of VIAF’s Artistic Director, Prof Mro Joseph Vella.

For the past 7 years, VIAF has also included a Baroque week within the larger framework of the Festival, hosting some of the world’s best performers of Baroque music.

More than 20 countries will be represented and over 600 performers will take part in the 2018 edition. Concerts will be held in 8 different venues all over Victoria. All concerts and cultural events are offered free to the public. More information on: www.viaf.org.mt

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13 June – 15 July

Photo by Sam Cefai

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13

Qala International Folk Festival Music, folk dance, costumes... the 13th edition of the Qala International Folk Festival is organised by the Qala Local Council and the Qala Menhir Folk Group. A weekend of folk dance, music and traditional food. The quaint village square is brought to life by a unique intercultural programme, that has grown to attract locals and visitors for its quality entertainment in an intimate, village setting.

Enjoy folk music, dance and local food. This event will make you remember Gozo for its unique hospitality and for the island’s authenticity.

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21 – 23 September

Photo by Ted Attard

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15

Fjakkolata

A Celebration of Light Spectacular and incredibly beautiful. Experience the unique sight of light breaking the darkness on a Gozo hillside, as hundreds of flaming lanterns flicker through the crisp, autumn air. One of the smallest hamlets in Gozo, commemorates a religious tradition... Drive to Santa Luċija soon after sunset and set your eyes on Għar Ilma hill, for an inspiring moment, against the beautiful backdrop of the Gozitan countryside. Drop in at the quaint Santa Luċija village square, and enjoy the suggestive ambience as the procession with the statue of Our Lady of Fatima proceeds into the village church. Mingle with the locals in the ensuing festive celebrations, enlivened with folk dance, local food and unique hospitality.

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14 October

Photo by Daniel Cilia

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Operas in Gozo 28 April Bellini’s opera Norma will be staged at Teatru Aurora, as the highlight of the Gaulitana Festival of Music. With its extraordinary fusion of sublime melody, vocal challenge, and dramatic power, Norma will enthrall audiences. It examines an ageless and archetypal situation: a powerful woman compromises her ideals for love, only to find herself betrayed by her lover. Directed by Enrico Castiglione, with costumes designed by Sonia Cammarata, Norma will be under the musical direction of Colin Attard who will conduct the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra and the Gaulitanus Choir. www.gaulitanus.com

Aurora Theatre presents Giacomo Puccini’s timeless classic, Tosca. The story tells of a dangerous love triangle – a musical masterpiece haunted by melodrama and lyrical arias. The Aurora Theatre, in Victoria, is an exquisite performance space housed inside a regal nineteenth Century Villa. Designed by architect Louis Naudi, and ornately decorated by venerated local artist Chev. Emvin Cremona, the Aurora Theatre has been a prime location for critically acclaimed operas since its inauguration in 1976. Tosca promises to be an unmissable experience full of emotions. www.teatruaurora.com

25 & 27 October

Photo by Joe Attard

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Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata, will be mark Astra Theatre’s 50th anniversary celebrations. Gabriele D’Annunzio’s telegraphic phrase about Verdi, “colui che pianse ed amó per tutti” (he wept and loved for all), sums up in a nutshell the Maestro’s genius and flair. Perhaps in no other of his operas as in the magnetic La Traviata, does Verdi concentrate the essence of his genius as a supreme interpreter of human nature. Making full use of his dramatic prowess and intuitive sense of irony, Verdi’s immortal score plumbs the depths of waywardness and redemption through love. Yet, there is no escaping the terrible truth that there is no redemption without the shedding of blood, be it physical or spiritual. Online booking on www.teatruastra.org.mt

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13 October

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Festival Mediterranea Festival Mediterranea, is an annual celebration of culture, with Gozo as a beautiful island backdrop in warm Autumn. Mythology has it that the charm of this island aided the most beautiful nymph Calypso to halt Ulysses on his journeys and lure him away from his travels for seven mystical years. Today, Gozo’s charm seeks to lure its visitors into a kaleidoscope of cultural events, highlighted by the celebrations of the arts in such festivals as the Mediterranea. Organised by Teatru Astra, the Festival Mediterranea’s highlight is the spectacular presentation of La Traviata by Giuseppe Verdi, with a double representation on the 25 and 27 October 2017.

Gozo’s Teatru Astra enjoys a well-established tradition of excellence, with the engagement of an internationally renowned cast, a fantastic opera chorus, imposing sets and scenery, outstanding costumes and spectacular lights. Live the Mediterranean, celebrating 7000 years of culture on Gozo! More info on: www.mediterranea.com. mt www.teatruastra.org.mt

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11 October - 14 November

Photo by Daniel Cilia

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21

KITE AND WIND FESTIVAL Have you flown a kite since your childhood days? This is the right opportunity to feel at one with the sky and nature. The first Gozo Kite and Wind Festival will be held during the third weekend of October, and will include kite building, kite flying sessions and all the fun that comes along. This is a unique event, promising high flying fun for children and adults with a free spirit. Be there and pray for wind!

Ħamiema, Tajra, Manuċċa, Fjamma...words used for kites in Malta towns and villages, which are testimony to the cultural diversity in language and yet, to the same human yearning for flying...

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20 - 21 October

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Christmas, an island of joy Christmas is a joyful time and Gozo steps up to celebrate.

The town of Victoria and main village squares light up with decorations and there is a hustle and bustle around the island that heralds the festive event. Look out for beautiful choir singing and traditional cribs that reveal true craftsmanship. The traditional processions with the bambin Gesu’ are held in every village with the participation of children. Roam around Betlehem f’Għajnsielem where a whole area known as Ta’ Passi, in the limits of Għajnsielem, is transformed into a nativity village, providing a cove where religion and local traditions intermingle. Check out the Gozo Christmas calendar and wrap yourself with the true spirit of Christmas. More info on: www.christmasingozo.com

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1 December - 6 January

Photo from Schola Cantorum Jubilate Archives

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25

Sun, 11 Mar: FMVA Vintage Motors Festival 2018

Sat, 24 & Sun, 25 Mar: Jesus Christ Superstar (Live Musical).

Fri, 9 Feb: Organised Carnival in Qala with dance

Organiser: info@fmvamalta.org

Andrew LLoyd Webber’s all-time favourite will be staged in

performances, costumes, cart floats competitions and the

Sat, 17 Mar: A Concert of Sacred Music

Vicotria.

kukkanja.

Organiser: Fondazzjoni Santa Ċeċilia A.D. 2013

Location: Astra Theatre

Location: Village Square, Qala

Location: St. James Church, Independence Square, Victoria

Organiser: La Stella Philharmonic Society, booking on

Mon, 1 Jan: A New Year’s Toast, 6th edition by The Gaulitanus

Sat, 10 Feb: Organised Carnival in Xagħra, including carnival

Sat, 17 Mar: L-Imsallab fi Triqatna. A re-enactment of the

www.ticketline.com.mt

Choir

floats, carnival dance groups and the traditional kumittiva

passion of Jesus, through the streets of Victoria.

Fri, 30 Mar: Good Friday Processions. Taking place in various

Location: The Kempinski Hotel, San Lawrenz

dance.

Sun, 18 Mar: Via Crucis at Ta’ Għammar Hill, Għarb with

villages, processions commemorating the crucifixion and

Organiser: The Gaulitanus Choir, www.gaulitanus.com

Location: Village Square, Xagħra

meditations based on the teachings of Pope Francis.

death of Jesus Christ, are events of worship and prayer. The

Sun, 7 Jan: Feast of the Epiphany. The re-enactment of the

Sun, 11 Feb: Organised Carnival in Għajnsielem, Xagħra and

Fri, 23 Mar: Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows. A number of

processions are a spectacle of splendid pegeantry, faithfully

arrival of the Three Wise Men and their offering of biblical gifts

Xewkija. Carnival in Xewkija celebrates the traditional carnival

traditional processions take place around the village cores, to

produced to the Gospels’ recount.

– gold, incense and myrrh to Baby Jesus.

delicacy, the prinjolata, costume competitions and the carnival

celebrate this religious feast. The Xewkija parish organises an

Location: Various villages around Gozo

Location: Victory Square, Xagħra

floats parade.

animated pageant along the old streets of the village.

Sun, 21 Jan: Feast of Saint Anthony the Abbot. A traditional

Location: Village Squares, Għajnsielem, Xagħra and Xewkija

Sat, 24 Mar: A Concert of Sacred Music, Leone Band Club.

feast including a religious procession and the blessing of

Organiser: Għajnsielem, Xagħra and Xewkija Local Councils

Music, reflections and meditations by the Leone Band, with the

domestic animals.

Fri, 9 - Tue, 13 Feb: Organised Carnival activities,Victoria;

participation of the Aurora Youth Choir and local artists.

Sun, 1 Apr: Easter Sunday joy is celebrated within and beyond

Location: Victory Square to Saint Anthony Square, Xagħra

Spontaneous Carnival, Nadur

Venue: Gozo Cathedral

the Gozo Citadel walls and in various other villages including

The Victoria Carnival celebrations offer family fun for the

Sat, 24 Mar: Freedom Day Concert

Kercem, Nadur, Xewkija, Żebbuġ, Qala, Xagħra, Fontana and

February

young and the young at heart and include parades, dancing

Location: Victoria

Għarb. The statue representing the Resurrected Christ is

and colourful, themed floats. The Nadur carnival is celebrated

Organiser: Gozo Culture

paraded with joyful band marches.

Sun, 4 Feb: Feast of St. John Bosco, Victoria

after sunset and attracts thousands of people, many in

Sun, 25 Mar: Good Friday Procession. A devotional procession

Sun, 1 Apr: Hip-Hip Hurray Family Fun on Easter Day

Sun, 4 Feb: The Gozo Youth Wind Band in Concert - Don Bosco

disguise and relishing a unique, fun experience. Not to be

commemorating the Passion of Christ, with participants

Location: Villa Rundle, Victoria

Grand Concert 2018

missed!

dressed up in rich period costumes, personifying personalities

Sat, 7 Apr: “Ir-Rakkont”, a biblical musical in Maltese about

An annual musical concert with the participation of Gozo

Locations: Republic Street, Victoria; Village Square, Nadur

and biblical characters. The Gozo Cathedral Chapter of Canons

the death and resurrection of Christ, with original scores by

youths.

Organisers: Gozo Culture, Nadur Local Council

and the Leone Band accompany the procession with funerary

Mario Vella Cordina.

marches.

Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria

Location: Gozo Cathedral, and around Victoria centre.

Sun, 8 Apr: Fiera tal-Għadira

Sun, 25 Mar: Palm Sunday. On the Sunday before Easter,

Organiser: Kerċem Local Council

January

Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria Organiser: The Gozo Youth Wind Band & Orchestra,

March

gozowindbandorchestra@yahoo.co.uk Sun, 4 Feb: Nadur Organised Carnival. A variety of costumes,

Sat, 3 Mar – Sun, 1 Apr: Easter Activities, Gozo - Art, Faith

Jesus’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, is commemorated

Sun, 1 – Fri, 29 Apr: Gaulitana: A Festival of Music - 12th

dances, colourful Carnival floats, hilarious sketches, live music

and Traditions. A full programme of events in Gozo spanning

with a village procession involving children and adults bearing

edition. A multifarious programme of events held in various

bands & the traditional Kukkanja

4 weeks. Look out for the detailed Easter activities brochure

palm leaves. In the late afternoon, a children’s procession

localities around Gozo starting on Easter Sunday and ending

Location: Village Square, Nadur

closer to the date!

commemorates the Passion of Jesus Christ.

with an OPERA+ Weekend (Apr 27-29), with Bellini’s operatic

Location: Victory Square, Xagħra

masterpiece Norma on Saturday, 28th April.

Organiser: Nadur Local Council, www.nadur.gov.mt

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April

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Other Events 2018

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Location: Aurora Opera Theatre www.gaulitanus.com

art and food.

An open-air concert with live music performances by the Leone

and the band’s resident singers under the Direction of Mro.

Sat, 21 Apr: Malta International Fireworks Festival (Gozo)

Location: Victoria

Band. Pop and rock classics are played with the participation

George Apap.

Sun, 28 Apr: The Science in the Citadel (Victoria)

Sun, 20 May: Marian Festival – a Christian song festival

of a line-up of renowned local singers and performers, for an

Location: Cittadella Ditch

Sun, 29 Apr: The 43rd edition of the Gozo Half Marathon. Run

organised with the collaboration of the Legion of Mary, Gozo.

evening of great music.

Organiser: DCapitals

for it!

Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria

Location: Independence Square, Victoria

Mon, 30 Jul: Opera Vs Pop Under The Stars. The Gozo Youth

The Gozo Half Marathon was organised for the first time in

Fri, 25 – Sun, 27 May: International Marian Symposium

*Jun: OASI Day Commemorative Celebrations

Orchestra in collaboration with the Ministry for Gozo and

Xagħra, Gozo on the 6th February 1977. Apart from the half

Location: Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary, Għarb

marathon, the event hosts an 8 mile run, a 4km and a 2km

Sun, 27 May: Feast of St. Paul, Munxar

July

June

Fri, 6 Jul: Hondoq by Night. A popular music festival in its 7th

pop arrangements from soundtracks and musicals.

edition. This year’s edition will feature top local bands and DJ’s

Location: Villa Rundle Gardens, Victoria

Sun, 3 Jun: Feast of the Corpus Christi, Għasri

including Cash & Band, Ira Losco & Band, DJ Ryan Spiteri and

Info and Reservation: gozowindbandorchestra@yahoo.co.uk

Sun, 10 Jun: Feast of St. Anthony, Għajnsielem

DJ Darco. Hondoq bay will be illuminated with hundreds of

Sun, 17 Jun: Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Fontana

flaming lanterns and special light effects, creating a magical

Fri, 22 Jun: Feast of Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu, Għarb

atmosphere for visitors of all ages to enjoy!

Sat, 5 May: The Gozo Ultra Trail is one of the most scenic

Sun, 24 Jun: Feast of St. John the Baptist, Xewkija

Location: Hondoq Bay

Mon, 30 Jul – Sun, 5 Aug: Festival at San Lawrenz, featuring

routes in the Mediterranean. The event consists of a 50km

Fri, 29 Jun: Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul, Nadur

Sat, 7 – Sun, 8 Jul: Figs Festival

contemporary and traditional dance groups, local talent and a

trail run, 50km MTB challenge and a 21km trail run. The

Sat, 23 & Sun, 24 Jun: Agricultural & Artisan Fair, a traditional

A fair of local fig based delicacies and other typical Maltese

3D Mapping show on the church façade.

course is a gorgeous, circumnavigation of the island covering

exhibition of agricultural products and entertainment.

products, accompanied by live music

Location: Village Square, San Lawrenz

cliff edge single tracks, lush valleys and water courses, seaside

Organiser: Nadur Local Council

Location: Xagħra, Square

Sat, 4 Aug: Ceramics Festival

salt pans, sandy beaches and rocky terrain; in short, you will

13 Jun – 15 Jul: The Victoria International Arts Festival is

Sun, 8 Jul: Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Kerċem

Location: Xlendi

experience the whole of the Mediterranean in one race. For the

Malta’s longest-running Festival, with an uninterrupted

Sun, 15 Jul: Feast of St. George, Victoria

Organiser: Gozo Culture

first time, in 2018, the 21km event will be a Qualifier for the

sequence of musical and cultural events spanning five

Sat, 21 Jul: Marsal Mużajk, Marsalforn

Sun, 5 Aug: Feast of St. Joseph, Qala

Xterra Trail Running World Championships that will be held

weeks between June and July. In 2018, the organisers will

Organiser: Gozo Culture office

Thu, 9 Aug: Leone Band in concert - The Festa Edition

in Maui!

be presenting the 21st edition: a concert will be held every

Sun, 22 Jul: Feast of St. Margaret, Sannat

An open-air celebratory concert as the Leone Band kicks off

More details on: www.maltaxterra.com/event/gozo-trail/

evening, offering the public a total of 40 unmissable concerts.

Sun, 29 Jul: Feast of the Visitation. This religious celebration

its final week of street celebrations in honour of Santa Marija.

Sun, 6 May: Feast of Saint Joseph

More information on: www.viaf.org.mt

includes a spectacular Infiorata, during which an intricate

Location: Republic Street, Victoria

The procession with the statue of St Joseph is led by the

Thur, 28 Jun: Farm to Fork. Free Tastings - local and

carpet of fresh flowers with thematic designs, is laboriously

Sun, 12 Aug: Feast of St. Lawrence

three confraternities of the parish followed by the clergy and

regional food stalls, local bands accompanied by local folk

laid in the village square. The infiorata is an old Italian

Sat 11 - Wed, 15 Aug: Feast of the Assumption of Our

the faithful reciting prayers. The Victory Band will be playing

entertainment, tours in production areas and the traditional

tradition, the oldest one originating in Gerano, the twin village

Lady, Victoria. The Santa Marija festa, a devotional Catholic

religious marches along the route.

Mnarja dinner at Gozitano Main Square.

of Għarb.

celebration, marks the culmination of summer and the height

Location: Victory Square and nearby streets, Xagħra

Location: Gozitano Complex, Mgarr Road

Thu, 26 – Sun, 29 Jul: DCAPITALS Live@Cittadella. A band

of the festa season in Gozo. The religious celebrations by the

Sat, 19 May: Gozo Alive, Culture in the City. A festival of music,

*Jun: Leone Goes Pop

concert with the participation of renowned Maltese singers

church, paralleled by lay events are spectacular for any visitor

Embassy of the United States of America presents: “Opera vs

race for younger athletes, making it an ideal event for the

and operatic songs and arias, followed by an array of lighter

and takes the participants through various Gozitan villages, with breath-taking views of the island’s landscape.

May

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August

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whole family. The half marathon route is of varying elevation

Pop Under the Stars – 11th Edition”. A programme of classical

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September

massive aerial fireworks displays that light up Gozo’s summer

Tickets and further information: www.teatruaurora.com

Sun, 16 Sep: Feast of Our Lady of Graces, Victoria

Sun, 14 Oct: A Celebration of Light. The locally known

sky. National street horse races are also organised in Victoria

Sat, 1 Sept: Jazz Do. An eclectic mix of jazz styles that

Sat, 22 Sept: Traditions - Wine, Olive Oil & Honey festival

Fjakkolata is a spectacle of thousands of burning lanterns

on 15th August.

entertains an ever-growing crowd against the unique setting

Enjoy the best of local produce in one of Gozo’s smallest

lit over Għar Ilma hill, overlooking the village of Santa Luċija,

Fri, 17 Aug: DB Celebration – a special activity for children,

of Mgarr Harbour. Dine out or mingle in a local bar area, while

villages, Għasri. A quaint village square setting, local folk and

Kerċem. This is an old tradition that accompanies village

including a Magic show, on the occasion of St. John Bosco’s

bands jazz up the atmosphere.

traditions... and the most genuine products to taste and take

celebrations in honour of Our Lady of Fatima, with a religiuos

birthday.

Organiser: Gozo Culture

home with you. An experience to share.

procession in the quaint village square setting. Visitors can

Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria

Sat, 1 Sept: Gozo Edition - Malta International Food Festival

Location: Village Square, Għasri

enjoy the festivities including folk dance and traditional food.

Sun, 19 Aug: Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady, Żebbuġ

2018

Fri, 21 – Sun, 23 Sept: Qala International Folk Festival. A

Worth a visit!

Sun, 26 Aug: Feast of Our Lady of Loreto, Għajnsielem

A street food festival. Taste the authentic Asian cuisines, the

spectacle of dancing, singing, music and folkloristic costumes

Organiser: Kerċem Local Council

Fri, 24 – Sun, 26 Aug: Gozo Film Festival

fresh Mediterranean delights and genuine Gozitan delicacies.

by local and foreign folk groups. Experience local life,

Fri, 19 Oct: Symphony of lights, a musical concert at Santa

The second edition of the Gozo Film Festival, featuring local

Your perfect night to discover new tastes, brewery stands and

traditions and local food as folk dancers and musicians enliven

Luċija, Kerċem.

and international films, is aimed at a discerning audience,

special wines for a great culinary experience, set in the heart

three evenings in Qala square.

Sat. 20 & Sun 21 Oct: Kite and Wind Festival

offering open air screenings in a unique, historical setting.

of a local village.

Location: Village Square, Qala

Thur, 25 & Sat 27 Oct: La Traviata

Organiser: The Gozo Film Club

Location: Xewkija Square

Organiser: Qala Local Council in collaboration with the Menħir

Location: Astra Opera Theatre, Victoria

Location: Cittadella

Sun, 2 Sept: Rock Concert, Marsalforn

Qala Folk Group

Tickets and further information on: www.teatruastra.org.mt

Aug: Għajnsielemfest. A two day event organised as part of the

Organiser: Gozo Culture Office

Sun, 30 Sept: Feast of Jesus the Nazarene. A show of music,

Thur, 11 Oct – Sat, 24 Nov: Mediterranea. A cultural festival on

local festa celebrations.

Fri, 7 Sept: Commemoration of the Great Siege and Second

song and a wine-tasting competition.

the island of Gozo.

Location: Għajnsielem Square

World War. Re-enactment of the Entrance of the Grand Master

Location: Ġnien Xibla Street, Xagħra

Location: Astra Opera Theatre, Victoria

Tue 28 – Wed, 29 Aug: Fior D’Argenta. A traditional village

and of a war air-raid.

square dinner in Xewkija that brings together a village, in a

Location: Victory Square, Xagħra

celebration that is animated by music, dance, culture and

Fri, 7 Sept: Pyrotechnical Fireworks display at in-Nuffara hill,

heritage, culminating in a tradtional bonfire.

Xagħra followed by festive marches on the Square and the

Sun, 7 Oct: OASI Cup Run. The OASI Cup Run encourages

Location: Xewkija Square

surrounding streets.

participants to endorse a healthy lifestyle through physical

Sat, 3 Nov: Leone Band in Concert. An annual symphonic

Wed, 29 Aug: Open-air children’s Summer Concert

Sat, 8 Sept: Feast of Our Lady of Victories, Xagħra

exercise. The Foundation works towards greater awareness

concert by the Leone Band, with a repertoire varying from

Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria

Sun, 9 Sept: Rock Concert at Marsalforn

about the harmful effects of illict drugs and alcohol abuse. The

symphonic overtures and opera music to nineteenth and

*Aug: Riflessi Sajfin Festival

Organiser: Gozo Culture

activity consists of a 10km run, a 5km walk and three runs for

twentieth century music from the big and small screens and

Organiser: Oasi

Mon, 10 Sept: Stage And Proms On The Sea. The Gozo Youth

children.

the world’s most renowned orchestra houses.

Location: Marsalforn

Wind Band presents the fourth edition of this spectacularly

Location: Starts in Victoria

Location: Aurora Opera Theatre

staged concert, on a large floating platform at Mġarr Harbour.

Organiser: Oasi Foundation

Sat 10, Sun 11 & Sat 17 Nov: “Wojtyla – L-Għajta t’Alla”, a

Enjoy music in a unique Mediterranean setting, with a

Sat, 13 Oct: Opera Night, Tosca by Giacomo Puccini

musical production about Pope John Paul II composed and

backdrop of sea craft and moonlit sky.

Location: Aurora Opera Theatre, Victoria

written by Antoine Mercieca and Joe W. Psaila.

Location: Mgarr Marina

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Info and Reservation: gozowindbandorchestra@yahoo.co.uk

Further information on: www.mediterranea.com.mt

October November

Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria

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– with colourful street decorations, joyful band marches and

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Sat, 17 Nov: The Annual Grand Concert by La Stella

Sat, 8 & Sun, 9 Dec: The Christmas Village, hosting a series of

Father Christmas, snowmen, and numerous other cartoon

Sat, 29 Dec: Christmas Concert by Fondazzjoni Santa Ċeċilja

Philharmonic Band 2018, free entrance.

events and activities, including music, beautiful illumination,

characters.

(A.D. 2013)

Location: Astra Opera Theatre

food and wine stalls, offers an impressive selections of wine

Sun, 23 Dec: Christmas pageant at San Lawrenz Village

Location: St. James Church, Independence Square, Victoria

Sun, 25 Nov: Gozo Road Race, Organised by the Gozo Cycling

from 17 different countries and 37 different wine regions.

Tue, 25 Dec: ‘Twas the night before Christmas. A Christmas

Mon, 31 Dec: The Rabat, Citta’ Victoria Local Council and the

Club

Various factory tours and presentations will be held, where

Eve concert from 01:30-02:30hrs featuring guest pop singers.

town’s commercial community, create a festive celebration,

Location: starts from Xagħra Square

visitors have the opportunity to learn and attain first hand

Location: St. George’s Square

heralding the New Year. The thousands of people who come

experience of the production of various agricultural products,

Tue, 25 Dec: Traditional Procession with Baby Jesus. During

to Victoria on the day, have the opportunity to celebrate

including marmalades, olive oil, honey and beer. Gozitano

this procession children carry the statue of Baby Jesus. The

together the arrival of the new year, in the historic town

attractions include production of traditional Christmas sweets,

Victory Band accompanies choirs singing carols.

surroundings. Entrance is free of charge.

Sat, 1 Dec – Sun, 6 Jan 2018: Gozo: Your Choice this

with the participation of artists, choirs, local bands and Father

Location: Dun Gorg Preca Street to the church, Xagħra.

Location: Independence Square and St. George’s Square

Christmas! A full programme of events spanning five weeks,

Christmas distributing presents.

Organiser: MUSEUM boys’ section

from 1st December to the 6th January, celebrating Christmas.

Location: Gozitano Agricultural Village, Xewkija

Fri, 28 Dec: Grand Christmas Concert, at the Xagħra Basilica

Look out for the detailed Christmas in Gozo brochure closer to

Fri, 14 & Sat, 15 Dec: Carols by Candlelight. A choral concert

with the participation of a local choir.

date. More detail on: www.christmasingozo.com

by Schola Cantorum Jubilate.

Sat, 1 Dec: The official opening of the Christmas festivities,

Location: St. Augustine’s Priory, Victoria

with the lighting of the Christmas tree, the Republic street

Sat, 15 Dec: Festival of Light. Organised by Fondazzjoni

lights in Victoria, and many other Christmas illuminations that

ta’ Klula to celebrate the patron saint, Santa Luċija. Santa

brighten up the island. Children’s choirs will also participate

Luċija square is decorated with flaming lanterns, bonfire

and fill Independence square with their angelic voices.

and animated by children carrying candles in a traditional

Sun, 2 Dec: Swejjaq, the open Market Christmas Edition at San

procession.

Lawrenz village.

Sun, 16 Dec: Dinja tat-tfal (Chrildren’s world)

Beginning of Dec - Sun, 1 Jan: Bethlehem f’Għajnsielem

This children’s fun park will give the children the opportunity

Spread on twenty thousand square meters of land, this

to meet their favourite characters and enjoy a variety of

nativity village takes visitors back in time to Judea of 2000

activities. Entrance is free of charge.

years ago, combining local customs and folklore which are

Location: Gozo Sports Complex, Victoria

usually associated with the Maltese crib.

Fri, 21 Dec: Nativitate Domini, a Christmas concert

Location: Għajsielem

Location: Żebbuġ Parish Church

Fri, 7 – Sun, 9 Dec: Gozo International Choir Festival

Sat, 22 Dec: Christmas Parade

The International Choir Festival brings together local and

A Christmas parade will commence from the lower part

international choir talent, for three evenings of beautiful

of Republic street, Victoria and will make its way up to

choir singing. The events will be held in Gozo churches, for

Independence Square. The parade is a Christmas celebration

a wonderful experience of great music, voices and magical

exhibiting various beautiful characters such as

* Content is indicative of highlights of the Gozo cultural calendar and is not comprehensive of all events. For full details, changes to the original programme and for other unlisted events, please check visitgozo.com

GIVE ME GOZO | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM

December

settings with Christmas decor.

Dwejra Gozo | Photo by Terry Camilleri

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PUBLIC AND NATIONAL HOLIDAYS Monday, 1 January Saturday, 10 February Monday, 19 March Friday, 30 March Saturday, 31 March Tuesday, 1 May Thursday, 7 June Friday, 29 June Wednesday, 15 August Saturday, 8 September Friday, 21 September Saturday, 8 December Thursday, 13 December Tuesday, 25 December

New Year’s Day Feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck Feast of St Joseph Good Friday Freedom Day Worker’s Day Sette Giugno Feast of St. Peter & St. Paul Feast of the Assumption Victory Day Independence Day Feast of the Immaculate Conception Republic Day Christmas Day

GOZO, YOUR NEXT STOP IN THE MEDITERRANEAN Experience Gozo’s gems, secrets and magnificence, a perfect blend of history and myth, mediterranean culture and cuisine.

History and culture have carved their own story on this island, symbolised by its prehistoric temples, magnificent churches and the towering Citadel. Blessed with a wonderful countryside, pristine beaches, and unique coastline, Gozo is there for you to discover.

Gozo is connected to over ninety six (96) destinations through the Malta International Airport (www.maltairport.com). Once in Malta, drive to Cirkewwa Harbour (approximately one hour) and take the comfortable Gozo ferry for the scenic 25-minute crossing to Mgarr Harbour, gateway to Gozo. (+356) 22156172; (+356) 22156177

Salt harvesting | Photo by Ted Attard

MALTA

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