Amid the lights, music, and festive cheer that transform Malta’s capital each December, Christmas in the Capital 2025 places the spiritual meaning of the season firmly at its core. Valletta—rich in heritage, devotion, and centuries-old tradition—once again becomes a space where faith is celebrated openly, warmly, and collectively. This year’s programme shines a particular spotlight on the religious customs that have shaped Malta’s Christmas identity for generations.
Through processions, sacred music, and cherished rituals, Christmas in the Capital 2025 invites everyone—locals, families, visitors, and pilgrims—to rediscover the serene, contemplative heart of the Nativity within the historical streets of Valletta.
A City Illuminated by Faith and Tradition
Christmas in Valletta is much more than a seasonal celebration; it is a renewal of community, spirituality, and cultural memory. The events curated for this year’s edition honour the traditions that countless Maltese grew up with—processions, cribs, sacred hymns—while opening a welcoming space for reflection during one of the most meaningful times of the year.
18th December – The Baby Jesus Procession: A Living Expression of Devotion
One of Malta’s most loved Christmas traditions returns with the Baby Jesus Procession, beginning at Our Lady of Victories Church in Castille Square. From 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, families and children carrying candles join together in a moving tribute to the Nativity, filling Valletta’s streets with hymns, prayers, and a shared sense of reverence.
The procession winds through Zachary Street, Republic Street, and St John’s Street, accompanied by moments of spiritual reflection. A highlight of the evening is the live performance by the Cappella Musicale Caeciliana, singing from the balcony of St John’s Co-Cathedral—a musical blessing that elevates the atmosphere into something truly sacred.
Nearby, visitors can pause before the beautifully illuminated traditional Christmas crib, a symbol deeply woven into Maltese culture. Its craftsmanship and storytelling bring the Bethlehem scene to life, inviting all who pass to reflect on the humble beginnings of the Christmas story.
23rd December – Sacred Music Concert: A Moment of Contemplation Before Christmas
Two days before Christmas, the Jesuit Church Oratories open their doors for an evening dedicated entirely to sacred music. From 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, the renowned Cappella Musicale Caeciliana presents a rich programme that bridges classical works with Maltese Christmas tradition.
Audiences will experience timeless compositions by Bach, Mozart, Handel, and Praetorius alongside beloved Maltese pieces such as Ninni La Tibkix Iżjed and O Ġesu Ħelwa Tarbija. The concert culminates with iconic carols including Hark! The Herald Angels Sing and Adeste Fideles, creating an atmosphere of serenity that prepares the soul for the days ahead.
In the intimate, historic setting of the Jesuit Church Oratories, this concert becomes more than a performance—it becomes prayer through music, an invitation to pause amid the bustle of the season and reconnect with its sacred essence.
24th December – Christmas Eve with The New Victorians: A Contemporary Reflection of Sacred Song
On Christmas Eve, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, the award-winning duo The New Victorians brings a fresh yet reverent approach to sacred Christmas music. Their programme blends Maltese and English hymns—including Glorja, Noel, Tifel tat-Tanbur, Silent Night, and O Lejl Qaddis—with their distinctive style rooted in voice, harmony, and storytelling.
Known for their artistic innovation and emotive performances, The New Victorians offer a concert that is both spiritual and artistically rich, capturing the anticipation and beauty of Christmas Eve. Their music bridges tradition and modernity, faith and creativity, making it a highlight of this year’s spiritual offerings.
A Christmas Rooted in Faith
Christmas in the Capital 2025 honours Valletta’s identity as a city shaped by devotion, ritual, and community spirit. Through each procession, concert, and sacred tradition, the programme offers space to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas: hope, humility, and togetherness.
In celebrating these cherished customs, Valletta invites everyone to experience Christmas not only as a festive event, but as a spiritual journey; one illuminated by the timeless message of the Nativity.
All celebrations above are organised by the Valletta Cultural Agency.
Visit: https://www.vca.gov.mt/en/events/christmas-in-the-capital-2025-2/ for more details.
