Carnival in Malta: A Colourful Week of Parades and Tradition
If you’re visiting Malta in February, there’s a good chance you’ll catch the islands at their most playful. Malta’s Carnival is a burst of colour and music with community spirit all around. Where historic streets packed with people and creativity takes over for a full week leading up to Lent.
It’s one of those events that feels very Maltese.
A tradition with deep roots
Carnival in Malta has been celebrated for centuries, with roots going back to the time of the Knights of St. John. Over the years it evolved into a national celebration that blends religious seasonal timing (the lead up to Lent) with a very modern love for spectacle: giant floats, theatrical costumes, bold makeup and dance performances.
Where it happens: Valletta, Floriana and beyond
While Carnival celebrations pop up across the islands, the main action is usually centred around Valletta and Floriana, where parades, competitions and performances bring in big crowds.
But one of the best things about Malta is that it doesn’t take much to find another lively spot: smaller local celebrations often have a warmer, more intimate feel. These are perfect if you want a Carnival experience that’s less crowded but still full of character.
Gozo’s famous Nadur Carnival offers an alternative, slightly edgier twist. This is perfect for groups wanting a more unconventional experience, definitely worth seeing.
The stars of the show: floats, costumes & dance
The ‘Carnival floats’ are truly the headline act. Towering, detailed and often hilariously satirical, they’re built by teams who spend months bringing each theme to life. You’ll see everything from fantasy inspired creations to playful commentary on current topics, always delivered with that classic Carnival exaggeration.
Then come the costumes: sequins, feathers, masks and dramatic silhouettes. Don’t forget the dance troupes performing choreographed routines that keep the pace high and entertaining at all times.
Not just parades
Carnival isn’t only about spectacle, it’s also about wandering, stopping, tasting and soaking it all in.
A few things you’ll want to look out for:
Street performances and music in the busiest areas
Family friendly activities
Local Carnival sweets, including the famous perlini (sugared almonds) and prinjolata (tall, layered dessert with candied fruit, crushed biscuits, pine nuts and sometime a splash of liquor).
Evening celebrations that lean more theatrical and bold as the week goes on
Why Carnival is worth planning around
Malta is lively year round, but Carnival is a special kind of energy: it’s communal bursting with fun. For visitors, it’s a chance to see local tradition at its most expressive. For groups, it’s an instant atmosphere builder, something that creates shared memories without needing an overcomplicated agenda.
If you’re looking for an experience that feels authentic, vibrant and uniquely Maltese, Carnival is it.