Gozo is the perfect destination if you’ve been dreaming of a warm rather than a white Christmas. According to the Malta Meteorological Office, last December the temperature peaked at 23.4°C and never dropped below the 10°C mark during the night. Such temperatures are perfect for making the most of the island’s calendar of festive events without having to shroud oneself in burdesome layers of clothing. Here are some experiences and events you should look out for if you are visiting Gozo at Christmastime. Be sure not to miss out on any of the fun by downloading the events in Gozo app for free.
Discover the island’s religious traditions
|The Christmas midnight mass is a very important tradition in Gozo.
As December approaches, a lot of house windows start donning their festive attire, with many opting to put small statues of Baby Jesus in a manger surrounded by ġulbiena (vetches) or hand-crafted nativity cribs on the sills. These decorations serve as a reminder that, first and foremost, Christmas remains a religious celebration on the island. Other religious traditions that have been observed for years include the celebration of midnight mass on Christmas Eve in most churches. During this special service a young boy or girl delivers a sermon that recounts parts of the nativity story, makes reflections on present-day world events, and ends with a message of peace and hope. Another Christmas Eve tradition that has been going strong on the Maltese Islands since 1921 is a procession with the statue of Baby Jesus.
Admire locals’ skilfully crafted nativity cribs
You'll find many cribs on the island depicting the nativity scene.
Wood, stone, cardboard, cork and papier mache are just some of the materials used to craft nativity cribs – a task that may take months depending on the size and complexity. Cribs are then populated with pasturi, small figures that were traditionally made of clay but are now available in different materials. These represent the Holy Family, the Magi, shepherds and other Biblical and non-religious characters. Some of these figures are unnamed, but others have been given nicknames such as ir-rieqed (the sleeping one), ix-xabbatur (the one climbing the cave to get a closer look at Baby Jesus), and l-għaġeb (the one with his hands up in the air as he stands in awe of Baby Jesus). While many families assemble humble cribs that find a special place in their homes at Christmastime, some go as far as mechanising elements of their nativity cribs and adding water features to create a more realistic environment. Some of these intricate creations are then either showcased at house windows, where they can be admired by passersby, or in special exhibitions, a full list of which may be found here.
Step into Gozo’s nativity village
A holiday in Gozo during the festive season is not quite complete without a visit to the island’s nativity village: Bethlehem f’Għajnsielem. Strecthing across 20,000 square metres on a plot of land just minutes away from Mgarr Harbour, this village recreates what the little town of Bethlehem possibly looked like more than 2000 years ago. Some 150 actors dressed in the traditional garb of shepherds, bakers, blacksmiths, carpenters and other characters have been bringing this village to life each year since 2008. The most important actors are undoubtedly the three portraying the Holy Family - very often young Gozitan families who would have welcomed a child recently. On the 5th of January, three men dressed as the Magi visit the nativity village, bringing gold, frankincense and myrrh to Baby Jesus.
Boo the baddies at Gozo’s very own pantomime
Inside the Astra Theatre right before last year's Panto
Christmas in Gozo is not just about religious traditions - the Christmas panto in English is a recent addition to the island’s festive calendar. This year’s production of Red Riding Hood will see the third larger-than-life dame grace the stage of the Astra Theatre, between the 26th and the 30th of December. Familiarity with the island’s political and cultural landscape would ensure that none of the panto banter goes over your head. But do not be discouraged from attending if you’ve got no clue what has made the local headlines this past year. Over-the-top costumes, infectious tunes and lovable characters are sure to make for a delightful afternoon at the theatre. Be sure to warm up your vocal chords as you’ll be asked to sing, boo the baddies and cheer for the goodies throughout the show!
Catch a Christmas concert in one of Gozo’s churches
If a boisterous afternoon is not your cup of tea, a Christmas concert in one of Gozo’s beautiful churches might be more up your alley than the panto. Between the 7th and the 28th of December, 15 concerts featuring children’s choirs, more well-established choirs, and some of Gozo’s best musicians and conductors will keep the Christmas spirit alive through the performance of carols and festive classical music. While some of these concerts are still in their infancy, one of the longest running, Feel the Magic of Christmas held at Saint George’s Basilica in Victoria, has delighted attendees at Christmastime for more than two decades. Besides church-based concerts, the official programme of events that can be accessed here, features several concerts in Gozo’s squares and other locations.
Visit a Christmas Market
Five Gozitan villages – San Lawrenz, Qala, Xagħra, Ta’ Kerċem and Għarb – will be hosting Christmas markets in their respective squares and streets. Although local markets are much humbler than those found in certain European capitals, one can still find a good selection of hand-made items, artisanal products, and local foods together with a wholesome festive atmosphere. Between the 1st and the 22nd of December, Villa Rundle Gardens in Victoria will also turn into a Christmas market. The gardens are especially magical during the festive season as illuminated structures and lanterns set them aglow once the sun sets.
Posted in Activity, Christmas, Cultural activities, Family, Heritage, Local, Things to do, Traditions, What to see in Gozo, Winter
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