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A Cultural Guideto 2018 Events

www.visitgozo.com

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Photo by Hush Studios; Cover Photo by Daniel Cilia

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!

Carnival9 – 13 February

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Photo by Shaun Sultana

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.

Gozo Faith & Traditions3 March – 1 April

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Photo by Shaun Sultana

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

GaulitanaFestival of Music1 – 29 April

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A culture filled day and evening, that will alight Gozo

and delight visitors. Bands, musical performances, re-

enactments, 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.

GOZO ALIVE19 May

Photo by CVC Media

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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!

Festi

Photo by CVC Media

27 May: Feast of St. Paul, Munxar3 Jun: Feast of Corpus Christi, Għasri10 June: Feast of St. Anthony, Għajnsielem17 Jun: Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Fontana24 Jun: Feast of St. John the Baptist, Xewkija29 Jun: Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul, Nadur8 Jul: Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Kerċem15 Jul: Feast of St. George, Victoria22 Jul: Feast of St. Margaret, Sannat29 Jul: Feast of the Visitation, Għarb5 Aug: Feast of St. Joseph, Qala12 Aug: Feast of St. Lawrence, San Lawrenz15 Aug: Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady, Victoria19 Aug: Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady, Żebbuġ26 Aug: Feast of Our Lady of Loreto, Għajnsielem8 Sep: Feast of Our Lady of Victories, Xagħra16 Sep: Feast of Our Lady of Graces, Victoria

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Photo by Sam Cefai

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

21st Edition of the Victoria International Arts Festival13 June – 15 July

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Photo by Ted Attard

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.

Qala International Folk Festival21 – 23 September

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Photo by Daniel Cilia

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.

Fjakkolata A Celebration of Light14 October

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28 AprilBellini’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

13 October

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 OctoberGiuseppe 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

Operas in Gozo

Photo by Joe Attard

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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

Festival Mediterranea11 October - 14 November

Photo by Daniel Cilia

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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...

KITE AND WINDFESTIVAL20 - 21 October

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Photo from Schola Cantorum Jubilate Archives

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

Christmas,an island of joy1 December - 6 January

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Other Events 2018January

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

Choir

Location: The Kempinski Hotel, San Lawrenz

Organiser: The Gaulitanus Choir, www.gaulitanus.com

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

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

– gold, incense and myrrh to Baby Jesus.

Location: Victory Square, Xagħra

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

feast including a religious procession and the blessing of

domestic animals.

Location: Victory Square to Saint Anthony Square, Xagħra

February

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

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

Grand Concert 2018

An annual musical concert with the participation of Gozo

youths.

Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria

Organiser: The Gozo Youth Wind Band & Orchestra,

gozowindbandorchestra@yahoo.co.uk

Sun, 4 Feb: Nadur Organised Carnival. A variety of costumes,

dances, colourful Carnival floats, hilarious sketches, live music

bands & the traditional Kukkanja

Location: Village Square, Nadur

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

Fri, 9 Feb: Organised Carnival in Qala with dance

performances, costumes, cart floats competitions and the

kukkanja.

Location: Village Square, Qala

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

floats, carnival dance groups and the traditional kumittiva

dance.

Location: Village Square, Xagħra

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

Xewkija. Carnival in Xewkija celebrates the traditional carnival

delicacy, the prinjolata, costume competitions and the carnival

floats parade.

Location: Village Squares, Għajnsielem, Xagħra and Xewkija

Organiser: Għajnsielem, Xagħra and Xewkija Local Councils

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

Spontaneous Carnival, Nadur

The Victoria Carnival celebrations offer family fun for the

young and the young at heart and include parades, dancing

and colourful, themed floats. The Nadur carnival is celebrated

after sunset and attracts thousands of people, many in

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

missed!

Locations: Republic Street, Victoria; Village Square, Nadur

Organisers: Gozo Culture, Nadur Local Council

March

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

and Traditions. A full programme of events in Gozo spanning

4 weeks. Look out for the detailed Easter activities brochure

closer to the date!

Sun, 11 Mar: FMVA Vintage Motors Festival 2018

Organiser: info@fmvamalta.org

Sat, 17 Mar: A Concert of Sacred Music

Organiser: Fondazzjoni Santa Ċeċilia A.D. 2013

Location: St. James Church, Independence Square, Victoria

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

passion of Jesus, through the streets of Victoria.

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

meditations based on the teachings of Pope Francis.

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

traditional processions take place around the village cores, to

celebrate this religious feast. The Xewkija parish organises an

animated pageant along the old streets of the village.

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

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

participation of the Aurora Youth Choir and local artists.

Venue: Gozo Cathedral

Sat, 24 Mar: Freedom Day Concert

Location: Victoria

Organiser: Gozo Culture

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

commemorating the Passion of Christ, with participants

dressed up in rich period costumes, personifying personalities

and biblical characters. The Gozo Cathedral Chapter of Canons

and the Leone Band accompany the procession with funerary

marches.

Location: Gozo Cathedral, and around Victoria centre.

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

Jesus’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, is commemorated

with a village procession involving children and adults bearing

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

commemorates the Passion of Jesus Christ.

Location: Victory Square, Xagħra

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

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

Vicotria.

Location: Astra Theatre

Organiser: La Stella Philharmonic Society, booking on

www.ticketline.com.mt

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

villages, processions commemorating the crucifixion and

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

processions are a spectacle of splendid pegeantry, faithfully

produced to the Gospels’ recount.

Location: Various villages around Gozo

April

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

the Gozo Citadel walls and in various other villages including

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

Għarb. The statue representing the Resurrected Christ is

paraded with joyful band marches.

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

Location: Villa Rundle, Victoria

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

the death and resurrection of Christ, with original scores by

Mario Vella Cordina.

Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria

Sun, 8 Apr: Fiera tal-Għadira

Organiser: Kerċem Local Council

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

edition. A multifarious programme of events held in various

localities around Gozo starting on Easter Sunday and ending

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

masterpiece Norma on Saturday, 28th April.

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Location: Aurora Opera Theatre www.gaulitanus.com

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

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

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

for it!

The Gozo Half Marathon was organised for the first time in

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

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

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

whole family. The half marathon route is of varying elevation

and takes the participants through various Gozitan villages,

with breath-taking views of the island’s landscape.

May

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

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

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

course is a gorgeous, circumnavigation of the island covering

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

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

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

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

Xterra Trail Running World Championships that will be held

in Maui!

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

Sun, 6 May: Feast of Saint Joseph

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

three confraternities of the parish followed by the clergy and

the faithful reciting prayers. The Victory Band will be playing

religious marches along the route.

Location: Victory Square and nearby streets, Xagħra

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

art and food.

Location: Victoria

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

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

Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria

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

Location: Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary, Għarb

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

June

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

exhibition of agricultural products and entertainment.

Organiser: Nadur Local Council

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

Malta’s longest-running Festival, with an uninterrupted

sequence of musical and cultural events spanning five

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

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

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

More information on: www.viaf.org.mt

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

regional food stalls, local bands accompanied by local folk

entertainment, tours in production areas and the traditional

Mnarja dinner at Gozitano Main Square.

Location: Gozitano Complex, Mgarr Road

*Jun: Leone Goes Pop

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

Band. Pop and rock classics are played with the participation

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

evening of great music.

Location: Independence Square, Victoria

*Jun: OASI Day Commemorative Celebrations

July

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

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

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

DJ Darco. Hondoq bay will be illuminated with hundreds of

flaming lanterns and special light effects, creating a magical

atmosphere for visitors of all ages to enjoy!

Location: Hondoq Bay

Sat, 7 – Sun, 8 Jul: Figs Festival

A fair of local fig based delicacies and other typical Maltese

products, accompanied by live music

Location: Xagħra, Square

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

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

Sat, 21 Jul: Marsal Mużajk, Marsalforn

Organiser: Gozo Culture office

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

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

includes a spectacular Infiorata, during which an intricate

carpet of fresh flowers with thematic designs, is laboriously

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

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

of Għarb.

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

concert with the participation of renowned Maltese singers

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

George Apap.

Location: Cittadella Ditch

Organiser: DCapitals

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

Orchestra in collaboration with the Ministry for Gozo and

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

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

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

pop arrangements from soundtracks and musicals.

Location: Villa Rundle Gardens, Victoria

Info and Reservation: gozowindbandorchestra@yahoo.co.uk

August

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

contemporary and traditional dance groups, local talent and a

3D Mapping show on the church façade.

Location: Village Square, San Lawrenz

Sat, 4 Aug: Ceramics Festival

Location: Xlendi

Organiser: Gozo Culture

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

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

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

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

Location: Republic Street, Victoria

Sun, 12 Aug: Feast of St. Lawrence

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

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

celebration, marks the culmination of summer and the height

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

church, paralleled by lay events are spectacular for any visitor

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– with colourful street decorations, joyful band marches and

massive aerial fireworks displays that light up Gozo’s summer

sky. National street horse races are also organised in Victoria

on 15th August.

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

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

birthday.

Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria

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

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

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

The second edition of the Gozo Film Festival, featuring local

and international films, is aimed at a discerning audience,

offering open air screenings in a unique, historical setting.

Organiser: The Gozo Film Club

Location: Cittadella

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

local festa celebrations.

Location: Għajnsielem Square

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

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

celebration that is animated by music, dance, culture and

heritage, culminating in a tradtional bonfire.

Location: Xewkija Square

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

Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria

*Aug: Riflessi Sajfin Festival

Organiser: Oasi

Location: Marsalforn

September

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

entertains an ever-growing crowd against the unique setting

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

bands jazz up the atmosphere.

Organiser: Gozo Culture

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

2018

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

fresh Mediterranean delights and genuine Gozitan delicacies.

Your perfect night to discover new tastes, brewery stands and

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

of a local village.

Location: Xewkija Square

Sun, 2 Sept: Rock Concert, Marsalforn

Organiser: Gozo Culture Office

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

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

and of a war air-raid.

Location: Victory Square, Xagħra

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

Xagħra followed by festive marches on the Square and the

surrounding streets.

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

Sun, 9 Sept: Rock Concert at Marsalforn

Organiser: Gozo Culture

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

Wind Band presents the fourth edition of this spectacularly

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

Enjoy music in a unique Mediterranean setting, with a

backdrop of sea craft and moonlit sky.

Location: Mgarr Marina

Info and Reservation: gozowindbandorchestra@yahoo.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

home with you. An experience to share.

Location: Village Square, Għasri

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

spectacle of dancing, singing, music and folkloristic costumes

by local and foreign folk groups. Experience local life,

traditions and local food as folk dancers and musicians enliven

three evenings in Qala square.

Location: Village Square, Qala

Organiser: Qala Local Council in collaboration with the Menħir

Qala Folk Group

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

song and a wine-tasting competition.

Location: Ġnien Xibla Street, Xagħra

October

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

participants to endorse a healthy lifestyle through physical

exercise. The Foundation works towards greater awareness

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

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

children.

Location: Starts in Victoria

Organiser: Oasi Foundation

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

Location: Aurora Opera Theatre, Victoria

Tickets and further information: www.teatruaurora.com

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

Fjakkolata is a spectacle of thousands of burning lanterns

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

Kerċem. This is an old tradition that accompanies village

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

procession in the quaint village square setting. Visitors can

enjoy the festivities including folk dance and traditional food.

Worth a visit!

Organiser: Kerċem Local Council

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

Luċija, Kerċem.

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

Thur, 25 & Sat 27 Oct: La Traviata

Location: Astra Opera Theatre, Victoria

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

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

the island of Gozo.

Location: Astra Opera Theatre, Victoria

Further information on: www.mediterranea.com.mt

November

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

concert by the Leone Band, with a repertoire varying from

symphonic overtures and opera music to nineteenth and

twentieth century music from the big and small screens and

the world’s most renowned orchestra houses.

Location: Aurora Opera Theatre

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

musical production about Pope John Paul II composed and

written by Antoine Mercieca and Joe W. Psaila.

Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria

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

Philharmonic Band 2018, free entrance.

Location: Astra Opera Theatre

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

Club

Location: starts from Xagħra Square

December

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

Christmas! A full programme of events spanning five weeks,

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

Look out for the detailed Christmas in Gozo brochure closer to

date. More detail on: www.christmasingozo.com

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

with the lighting of the Christmas tree, the Republic street

lights in Victoria, and many other Christmas illuminations that

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

and fill Independence square with their angelic voices.

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

Lawrenz village.

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

Spread on twenty thousand square meters of land, this

nativity village takes visitors back in time to Judea of 2000

years ago, combining local customs and folklore which are

usually associated with the Maltese crib.

Location: Għajsielem

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

The International Choir Festival brings together local and

international choir talent, for three evenings of beautiful

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

a wonderful experience of great music, voices and magical

settings with Christmas decor.

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

events and activities, including music, beautiful illumination,

food and wine stalls, offers an impressive selections of wine

from 17 different countries and 37 different wine regions.

Various factory tours and presentations will be held, where

visitors have the opportunity to learn and attain first hand

experience of the production of various agricultural products,

including marmalades, olive oil, honey and beer. Gozitano

attractions include production of traditional Christmas sweets,

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

Christmas distributing presents.

Location: Gozitano Agricultural Village, Xewkija

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

by Schola Cantorum Jubilate.

Location: St. Augustine’s Priory, Victoria

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

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

Luċija square is decorated with flaming lanterns, bonfire

and animated by children carrying candles in a traditional

procession.

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

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

to meet their favourite characters and enjoy a variety of

activities. Entrance is free of charge.

Location: Gozo Sports Complex, Victoria

Fri, 21 Dec: Nativitate Domini, a Christmas concert

Location: Żebbuġ Parish Church

Sat, 22 Dec: Christmas Parade

A Christmas parade will commence from the lower part

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

Independence Square. The parade is a Christmas celebration

exhibiting various beautiful characters such as

Father Christmas, snowmen, and numerous other cartoon

characters.

Sun, 23 Dec: Christmas pageant at San Lawrenz Village

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

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

Location: St. George’s Square

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

this procession children carry the statue of Baby Jesus. The

Victory Band accompanies choirs singing carols.

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

Organiser: MUSEUM boys’ section

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

with the participation of a local choir.

Sat, 29 Dec: Christmas Concert by Fondazzjoni Santa Ċeċilja

(A.D. 2013)

Location: St. James Church, Independence Square, Victoria

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

town’s commercial community, create a festive celebration,

heralding the New Year. The thousands of people who come

to Victoria on the day, have the opportunity to celebrate

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

surroundings. Entrance is free of charge.

Location: Independence Square and St. George’s Square

* 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

Dwejra Gozo | Photo by Terry Camilleri

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PUBLIC AND NATIONAL HOLIDAYS

Monday, 1 January New Year’s DaySaturday, 10 February Feast of St Paul’s ShipwreckMonday, 19 March Feast of St JosephFriday, 30 March Good FridaySaturday, 31 March Freedom DayTuesday, 1 May Worker’s DayThursday, 7 June Sette GiugnoFriday, 29 June Feast of St. Peter & St. PaulWednesday, 15 August Feast of the AssumptionSaturday, 8 September Victory DayFriday, 21 September Independence DaySaturday, 8 December Feast of the Immaculate Conception Thursday, 13 December Republic DayTuesday, 25 December 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.

MALTA

GOZO

Designed by Keen Limited (+356) 22156172; (+356) 22156177 visitgozo@gov.mtSalt harvesting | Photo by Ted Attard

www.visitgozo.com

Photo by Daniel Cilia