Reading time - 1 min 50 sec
Maltese Christmas Traditions
Christmas is a widely observed festival in Malta, not only because of its religious significance but also because of its social significance. The festive season is enjoyed across Malta and Gozo, and everyone enjoys taking part in the various festivities that take place. Christmas in Malta is known as ‘Il-Milied’ and is observed on December 25th. On the other hand, the planning begins well in advance of the event.
The Crib of Traditional Maltese Nativity
The Maltese tradition of the ‘Presepju,’ or Nativity Cribs, is by far one of the most popular traditions that dominate the Christmas season. Many people construct their own cribs, either as a hobby to decorate their houses or as a more professional ability to exhibit in exhibitions. The nativity scene is depicted on the cribs, which frequently feature Maltese scenery. They’re adorned with ‘pasturi,’ or figurines that depict religious figures and animals surrounded by lights and plants. This tradition dates back to 1617 when the Dominican Friars Church in Rabat produced and presented the first actual Maltese crib. The Maltese crib is now an essential feature of the Christmas Eve parade in Malta, which began in 1921. ‘Presepji’ displays can also be found in various locations over the island.
Tree for Christmas
Maltese families follow the global custom of decorating their homes with baubles, lights, and tinsel by putting up a Christmas Tree! In addition, to get into the holiday spirit, family houses are decked out with wreaths, candles, and stockings. It is one of Malta’s most favourite Christmas activities.
Ġulbiena
Inside private homes, nativity cribs and figurines of a newborn Jesus are prominently displayed. These are generally flanked by ‘Ġulbiena,’ which are long, white grass-like plants that resemble angels’ hair. Around five weeks before Christmas, these seeds are put on damp cotton buds and left to sprout in total darkness, resulting in the colourless plant shoots used to decorate the crib.
Mass at Midnight
The Christmas Eve parade, which Midnight Mass follows, is a popular event in Malta. Because Catholics make up the bulk of Malta’s population, many locals join the procession and Mass. Instead of a priest, carols are sung, and a young child retells the nativity story during the liturgy.
Food & Family
It would be impossible to discuss Christmas traditions without including family. Christmas is a time when the entire family may gather together to rejoice and share a meal because Maltese families are generally large and close-knit. The ‘Dundjan’ (roast turkey) and the ‘Pudina tal-Milied’ highlight the Christmas family lunch, as is true British tradition (Christmas pudding).
If you visit Malta over the holidays, you’ll find a variety of restaurants and bars serving Christmas dinners, as well as a variety of festivities taking place all across the island.
