If you’d rather be singing about the weather outside being delightful this Christmas, a December escape to the island of Gozo is bound to have you hitting all the right notes. Beyond mild weather and an average of five hours of daily sunshine, the festive season on the island is a truly special time when the importance of togetherness, tradition, and religion shines through. Here’s what to look out for to enjoy Christmastime in Gozo like a local.
Take a Closer Look at Nativity Cribs
A crib set in the square of the quaint San Lawrenz village. Photo: Baron Holiday Homes
Christmas in Gozo remains deeply rooted in tradition and religion, and nowhere is this more evident than in locals’ love for nativity cribs and the small figures, known as pasturi, that bring them to life. As December rolls round, these cribs, from humble displays to larger, elaborate scenes made from every material imaginable, begin to appear in village squares, churches, and windowsills across the island. Many Gozitan villages host special exhibitions showcasing nativity cribs, giving visitors a chance to admire the skill, creativity, and painstaking work that go into each creation.
The village of Għajnsielem takes this one step further by recreating the little town of Betlehem on a plot of land measuring around 20,000 square metres. Some 150 volunteers dressed as shepherds, carpenters, blacksmiths and, of course, the Holy Family, take visitors back more than 2,000 years to relive the events that led to the birth of Baby Jesus. Għajnsielem has also become synonymous with a 60-foot-tall Christmas tree made of 4,500 colourful glass bottles, erected in the village piazza during the festive period.
Experience the Magic of Midnight Mass
One of Gozo’s longest-standing and most cherished Christmas traditions is the celebration of Midnight Mass on the 24th of December. During this special service, the priest steps aside to let a young boy or girl deliver a short sermon to the congregation, which consists of a retelling of the nativity story filled with reflections and messages of peace, hope, and joy. The moment the child ends with the words “Viva Ġesù Bambin!” (a cheer for Baby Jesus), the church usually erupts in applause, in appreciation for the little one’s effort in memorising and delivering such an important message on this holy night. The chosen child usually delivers this message with such passion and pride that, even if you don’t understand the words, make this a truly heart-warming experience.
Turn your Visit into a Musical Experience
Gozo may be a small island, but it’s brimming with musical talent. With more than 15 concerts happening between the 3rd of December and the New Year, it’s hard to settle for just one performance. From lively brass ensembles and elegant string orchestras to soft children’s choirs and well-established soloists, there’s music for every ear on this year’s festive programme. Many of these concerts are held within the intimate interiors of Gozo’s beautiful churches, turning the performances into wholesome experiences that fill the heart with the true spirit of Christmas.
Be Dazzled by the Illuminated Villa Rundle Gardens
The decorations inside the Villa Rundle Garden. Photo: Baron Holiday Homes.
The Villa Rundle Gardens, in the heart of Victoria, will once again don their shimmery festive attire between the 29th of November and the 6th of January. Illuminated pathways, twinkling trees, and a festival of lights transform the gardens into a small winter wonderland that’s sure to makes the faces of children and adults glow. From the 30th of November until Christmas Eve, the gardens will also host one of the island’s Christmas markets.
Although Christmas markets are a relatively recent addition to Gozo’s festive calendar, they’ve quickly increasing in popularity, with many villages now organising their own. If you visit, make sure to look out for stalls selling local seasonal treats, especially the sticky, sweet honey rings made with dark treacle and the comforting imbuljuta, a warm drink of chestnuts, cocoa, and spices.
Laugh your Heart out at the Christmas Panto
If you’re looking for an afternoon or evening of belly laughs and good fun, a ticket to the Christmas pantomime will not disappoint. Staged at the beautiful Astra Theatre with the participation of established actors, rising stars and impressively talented musicians, the pantomime lovingly pokes fun at everything from local politics to international blunders but always ends by reminding the audience that it pays to be good to others. This year’s edition will be a retelling of Robin Hood with twists and turns that are set to keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end!
Have a browse through the full programme of events here.
Posted in Christmas, Family, Music, Things to do, Winter
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