Malta is home to two incredible Carnival celebrations each year, the organized glamour of Valletta’s Winter Carnival 
and the seaside sparkle of the Summer Carnival 
. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning, this guide covers dates, locations, costumes, and tips to enjoy both editions!
📌 Note: Dates listed are for 2025 and may vary slightly each year. Always check official sources before planning your trip Get Tickets & Info
Carnival Dates & Locations
❄️ Main Malta Carnival (Winter Edition)
- 📅 28 February – 4 March 2025
- 📍 Valletta & Floriana
- 🎉 Parades, dance competitions, floats, theatrical performances, and more.
- 🎟️ Get Tickets & Info
Ħamrun Band Parade
23 February 2025
St. Joseph High Street, Ħamrun
Traditional band procession to kick off the carnival season.
Purchase Tickets — €7–€20
Gold Area: Premium seating near the Grandmaster’s Palace (requires specific pass)
Accessibility: Wheelchair areas, companion tickets, pushchair storage (Malta Info Guide)
Where to Find Event Info & Book Tickets
Winter Carnival (Valletta & Floriana)
- Events unfold across St. George’s Square, Republic Street, and other Valletta streets.
Morning programs, dance company showcases, and float parades.
Evening grand finale in St. Anne’s Street, Floriana- Purchase Tickets — €7–€20
- Gold Area: Premium seating near the Grandmaster’s Palace (requires specific pass)
- Accessibility: Wheelchair areas, companion tickets, pushchair storage (Malta Info Guide)
Summer Carnival (Buġibba & Marsaskala)
- Open-air, family-friendly events
- Tickets usually not required — check Malta Info Guide)
Costume Ideas: Embrace the Festive Spirit
General Tips
- Bold, theatrical, and fun — bright colours, feathers, grotesque masks, satirical themes
- Costume shops across Malta offer adult & children outfits, character masks, glittery ensembles (Malta Info Guide)
Unique Local Variations
- Nadur Carnival (Gozo): Spontaneous, no-rules style — cross-dressing, eerie masks, macabre antics
- Għaxaq Village Carnival: Vintage-style clothing, old-fashioned wardrobes, homemade masks — quirky & retro
- Festivals Malta or tourism sites closer to the dates
Use public transport: Buses, ferries, or park-and-ride — Valletta parking is limited
Stay hydrated & camera-ready — catch all the absurd, theatrical, and candid moments
Carnival Essentials
- Prinjolata: Traditional Maltese dessert
- Perlini: Maltese sugar-coated almonds
"Puddin’, Gozo’s never gonna forget this carnival 💋 #HarleyAndJoker"
What to Expect at Each Festival
Festival: Winter Carnival
- Dates (2025): 28 Feb – 4 Mar
- Where: Valletta & Floriana (plus Ħamrun parade on 23 Feb)
Highlights: Parade floats, dance competitions, Il-Parata sword dance 
, Il-Qarċilla street theatre , premium seating, accessibility options
Festival: Summer Carnival
- Dates: 22–23 Aug (Buġibba), 24 Aug (Marsaskala)
- Where: Buġibba promenade, Marsaskala waterfront
- Highlights: Sunset parades , floats, seaside dancing, family-friendly
Tips for Booking & Attending
Book Winter Carnival arena seats early — especially for premium views or groups- Check schedules on Festivals Malta or tourism sites closer to the dates
- Use public transport: Buses, ferries, or park-and-ride — Valletta parking is limited
- Stay hydrated & camera-ready — catch all the absurd, theatrical, and candid moments
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s the organized glamour of Winter Carnival or the sunset sparkle of Summer Carnival , Malta’s dual festivities offer rich cultural immersion and unforgettable memories.
📌 Copyright Notice
© Deluxe Escape by SLO – All rights reserved.
This content is meant to be read and enjoyed on this blog. You are welcome to share the link with others, but the text, images, and guides may not be copied, resold, or redistributed without permission. 🚫
Join Our Facebook Group!
Stay connected with fellow travelers and share your experiences by joining our Facebook group:
Deluxe Escape by SLO Facebook Group. 📱💬
📸 Follow us on Instagram!
💬 We’d love to hear from you!
"Please take a moment to share your thoughts by filling out our review form: Review Form Link
Your feedback helps us improve our products and assists future travelers in making the best choices!”