carnival - · pdf filecarnival is a colourful and fun celebration in gozo. ... vocal...
TRANSCRIPT
2 3
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
Photo by Hush Studios; Cover Photo by Daniel Cilia
Carnival is a colourful and fun celebration in Gozo.
For five consecutive days, the island’s intense, natural
Mediterranean blue and green are rivalled by the vibrant
colours of carnival costumes and floats that meander
through the main towns and villages in upbeat mood.
Join the locals for five days of revelry, with young and
old dressing up in intricate costumes or grotesque masks.
Follow the Rabat parades with their floats and rhythmic
dance for pure family fun. For an extravagant take on
carnival, Nadur village is the unmissable choice. This
carnival stems from village tradition and is essentially
spontaneous. Here, the purpose of costumes is disguise.
Join the party, in a palpable atmosphere of authentic,
local fun!
Carnival9 – 13 February
4 5
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
Photo by Shaun Sultana
Easter time in Gozo is deeply rooted in religious tradition.
The solemn, religious rituals during Lent and the Easter
weekend, are fascinating for any visitor. On the weeks
preceding Easter, Gozo becomes a hub of activities in
preparation for the Good Friday processions and pageants,
which provide real life re-enactments of the passion of
Christ. The pealing of church bells on Easter Sunday on
the 1st April heralds the celebration of the Resurrection
of Christ. An exuberant mood prevails in villages where
groups of bearers wearing the kunfratija, carry the statue
of Christ along the streets, to the lively tunes of band
marches. These celebrations intertwine with local life and
traditions and offer the visitor an authentic experience of
Gozo.
Gozo Faith & Traditions3 March – 1 April
6 7
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
Photo by Shaun Sultana
Bellini’s opera Norma will be staged at Teatru Aurora, as
the highlight of the Gaulitana Festival of Music. With its
extraordinary fusion of sublime melody, vocal challenge,
and dramatic power, Norma will enthrall audiences.
It examines an ageless and archetypal situation: a
powerful woman compromises her ideals for love, only
to find herself betrayed by her lover. Directed by Enrico
Castiglione, with costumes designed by Sonia Cammarata,
Norma will be under the musical direction of Colin Attard
who will conduct the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra and
the Gaulitanus Choir. www.gaulitanus.com
GaulitanaFestival of Music1 – 29 April
8 9
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
A culture filled day and evening, that will alight Gozo
and delight visitors. Bands, musical performances, re-
enactments, fireworks, art exhibitions, dance, short film
screening and guided tours – a programme of events
that will surely entertain and present Gozo in a unique,
exciting way for everyone to enjoy.
GOZO ALIVE19 May
Photo by CVC Media
10 11
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
Are you in Gozo this summer? Festi are a unique way to
experience local traditions, religious celebrations and a
festive way of life eased by the long and warm summer days.
Festi are about patron saints leading sombre processions,
beautifully decorated churches and then lights, sounds
and fireworks, as communities come together for a yearly
celebration that awes visitors. Join a local festa between
May and September and live Gozo the authentic way!
Festi
Photo by CVC Media
27 May: Feast of St. Paul, Munxar3 Jun: Feast of Corpus Christi, Għasri10 June: Feast of St. Anthony, Għajnsielem17 Jun: Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Fontana24 Jun: Feast of St. John the Baptist, Xewkija29 Jun: Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul, Nadur8 Jul: Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Kerċem15 Jul: Feast of St. George, Victoria22 Jul: Feast of St. Margaret, Sannat29 Jul: Feast of the Visitation, Għarb5 Aug: Feast of St. Joseph, Qala12 Aug: Feast of St. Lawrence, San Lawrenz15 Aug: Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady, Victoria19 Aug: Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady, Żebbuġ26 Aug: Feast of Our Lady of Loreto, Għajnsielem8 Sep: Feast of Our Lady of Victories, Xagħra16 Sep: Feast of Our Lady of Graces, Victoria
12 13
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
Photo by Sam Cefai
Victoria International Arts Festival has established itself
as the longest-running festival of its kind on the islands,
with events spanning five weeks between June and July.
For the 21st edition, the organisers will be presenting 40
concerts. Both the opening and the closing concerts will be
performed by the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra under the
direction of VIAF’s Artistic Director, Prof Mro Joseph Vella.
For the past 7 years, VIAF has also included a Baroque
week within the larger framework of the Festival, hosting
some of the world’s best performers of Baroque music.
More than 20 countries will be represented and over 600
performers will take part in the 2018 edition. Concerts will
be held in 8 different venues all over Victoria. All concerts
and cultural events are offered free to the public. More
information on: www.viaf.org.mt
21st Edition of the Victoria International Arts Festival13 June – 15 July
14 15
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
Photo by Ted Attard
Music, folk dance, costumes... the 13th edition of the Qala
International Folk Festival is organised by the Qala Local
Council and the Qala Menhir Folk Group. A weekend
of folk dance, music and traditional food. The quaint
village square is brought to life by a unique intercultural
programme, that has grown to attract locals and visitors
for its quality entertainment in an intimate, village setting.
Enjoy folk music, dance and local food. This event will
make you remember Gozo for its unique hospitality and
for the island’s authenticity.
Qala International Folk Festival21 – 23 September
16 17
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
Photo by Daniel Cilia
Spectacular and incredibly beautiful. Experience the
unique sight of light breaking the darkness on a Gozo
hillside, as hundreds of flaming lanterns flicker through
the crisp, autumn air. One of the smallest hamlets in
Gozo, commemorates a religious tradition... Drive to
Santa Luċija soon after sunset and set your eyes on Għar
Ilma hill, for an inspiring moment, against the beautiful
backdrop of the Gozitan countryside. Drop in at the quaint
Santa Luċija village square, and enjoy the suggestive
ambience as the procession with the statue of Our Lady of
Fatima proceeds into the village church. Mingle with the
locals in the ensuing festive celebrations, enlivened with
folk dance, local food and unique hospitality.
Fjakkolata A Celebration of Light14 October
18 19
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
28 AprilBellini’s opera Norma will be staged at Teatru Aurora, as the highlight of the
Gaulitana Festival of Music. With its extraordinary fusion of sublime melody,
vocal challenge, and dramatic power, Norma will enthrall audiences. It
examines an ageless and archetypal situation: a powerful woman compromises
her ideals for love, only to find herself betrayed by her lover. Directed by
Enrico Castiglione, with costumes designed by Sonia Cammarata, Norma
will be under the musical direction of Colin Attard who will conduct the Malta
Philharmonic Orchestra and the Gaulitanus Choir. www.gaulitanus.com
13 October
Aurora Theatre presents Giacomo Puccini’s timeless classic, Tosca. The
story tells of a dangerous love triangle – a musical masterpiece haunted by
melodrama and lyrical arias. The Aurora Theatre, in Victoria, is an exquisite
performance space housed inside a regal nineteenth Century Villa. Designed
by architect Louis Naudi, and ornately decorated by venerated local artist
Chev. Emvin Cremona, the Aurora Theatre has been a prime location for
critically acclaimed operas since its inauguration in 1976. Tosca promises
to be an unmissable experience full of emotions. www.teatruaurora.com
25 & 27 OctoberGiuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata, will be mark Astra Theatre’s 50th anniversary
celebrations. Gabriele D’Annunzio’s telegraphic phrase about Verdi, “colui che
pianse ed amó per tutti” (he wept and loved for all), sums up in a nutshell the
Maestro’s genius and flair. Perhaps in no other of his operas as in the magnetic
La Traviata, does Verdi concentrate the essence of his genius as a supreme
interpreter of human nature. Making full use of his dramatic prowess and intuitive
sense of irony, Verdi’s immortal score plumbs the depths of waywardness and
redemption through love. Yet, there is no escaping the terrible truth that there
is no redemption without the shedding of blood, be it physical or spiritual. Online
booking on www.teatruastra.org.mt
Operas in Gozo
Photo by Joe Attard
20 21
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
Festival Mediterranea, is an annual celebration of
culture, with Gozo as a beautiful island backdrop in
warm Autumn. Mythology has it that the charm of this
island aided the most beautiful nymph Calypso to halt
Ulysses on his journeys and lure him away from his
travels for seven mystical years. Today, Gozo’s charm
seeks to lure its visitors into a kaleidoscope of cultural
events, highlighted by the celebrations of the arts in such
festivals as the Mediterranea. Organised by Teatru Astra,
the Festival Mediterranea’s highlight is the spectacular
presentation of La Traviata by Giuseppe Verdi, with a
double representation on the 25 and 27 October 2017.
Gozo’s Teatru Astra enjoys a well-established tradition
of excellence, with the engagement of an internationally
renowned cast, a fantastic opera chorus, imposing sets
and scenery, outstanding costumes and spectacular
lights. Live the Mediterranean, celebrating 7000 years of
culture on Gozo! More info on: www.mediterranea.com.
mt www.teatruastra.org.mt
Festival Mediterranea11 October - 14 November
Photo by Daniel Cilia
22 23
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
Have you flown a kite since your childhood days? This
is the right opportunity to feel at one with the sky and
nature. The first Gozo Kite and Wind Festival will be held
during the third weekend of October, and will include kite
building, kite flying sessions and all the fun that comes
along. This is a unique event, promising high flying fun for
children and adults with a free spirit. Be there and pray
for wind!
Ħamiema, Tajra, Manuċċa, Fjamma...words used for kites
in Malta towns and villages, which are testimony to the
cultural diversity in language and yet, to the same human
yearning for flying...
KITE AND WINDFESTIVAL20 - 21 October
24 25
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
Photo from Schola Cantorum Jubilate Archives
Christmas is a joyful time and Gozo steps up to celebrate.
The town of Victoria and main village squares light
up with decorations and there is a hustle and bustle
around the island that heralds the festive event. Look
out for beautiful choir singing and traditional cribs that
reveal true craftsmanship. The traditional processions
with the bambin Gesu’ are held in every village with
the participation of children. Roam around Betlehem
f’Għajnsielem where a whole area known as Ta’ Passi, in
the limits of Għajnsielem, is transformed into a nativity
village, providing a cove where religion and local traditions
intermingle. Check out the Gozo Christmas calendar and
wrap yourself with the true spirit of Christmas. More info
on: www.christmasingozo.com
Christmas,an island of joy1 December - 6 January
26 27
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
Other Events 2018January
Mon, 1 Jan: A New Year’s Toast, 6th edition by The Gaulitanus
Choir
Location: The Kempinski Hotel, San Lawrenz
Organiser: The Gaulitanus Choir, www.gaulitanus.com
Sun, 7 Jan: Feast of the Epiphany. The re-enactment of the
arrival of the Three Wise Men and their offering of biblical gifts
– gold, incense and myrrh to Baby Jesus.
Location: Victory Square, Xagħra
Sun, 21 Jan: Feast of Saint Anthony the Abbot. A traditional
feast including a religious procession and the blessing of
domestic animals.
Location: Victory Square to Saint Anthony Square, Xagħra
February
Sun, 4 Feb: Feast of St. John Bosco, Victoria
Sun, 4 Feb: The Gozo Youth Wind Band in Concert - Don Bosco
Grand Concert 2018
An annual musical concert with the participation of Gozo
youths.
Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria
Organiser: The Gozo Youth Wind Band & Orchestra,
Sun, 4 Feb: Nadur Organised Carnival. A variety of costumes,
dances, colourful Carnival floats, hilarious sketches, live music
bands & the traditional Kukkanja
Location: Village Square, Nadur
Organiser: Nadur Local Council, www.nadur.gov.mt
Fri, 9 Feb: Organised Carnival in Qala with dance
performances, costumes, cart floats competitions and the
kukkanja.
Location: Village Square, Qala
Sat, 10 Feb: Organised Carnival in Xagħra, including carnival
floats, carnival dance groups and the traditional kumittiva
dance.
Location: Village Square, Xagħra
Sun, 11 Feb: Organised Carnival in Għajnsielem, Xagħra and
Xewkija. Carnival in Xewkija celebrates the traditional carnival
delicacy, the prinjolata, costume competitions and the carnival
floats parade.
Location: Village Squares, Għajnsielem, Xagħra and Xewkija
Organiser: Għajnsielem, Xagħra and Xewkija Local Councils
Fri, 9 - Tue, 13 Feb: Organised Carnival activities,Victoria;
Spontaneous Carnival, Nadur
The Victoria Carnival celebrations offer family fun for the
young and the young at heart and include parades, dancing
and colourful, themed floats. The Nadur carnival is celebrated
after sunset and attracts thousands of people, many in
disguise and relishing a unique, fun experience. Not to be
missed!
Locations: Republic Street, Victoria; Village Square, Nadur
Organisers: Gozo Culture, Nadur Local Council
March
Sat, 3 Mar – Sun, 1 Apr: Easter Activities, Gozo - Art, Faith
and Traditions. A full programme of events in Gozo spanning
4 weeks. Look out for the detailed Easter activities brochure
closer to the date!
Sun, 11 Mar: FMVA Vintage Motors Festival 2018
Organiser: [email protected]
Sat, 17 Mar: A Concert of Sacred Music
Organiser: Fondazzjoni Santa Ċeċilia A.D. 2013
Location: St. James Church, Independence Square, Victoria
Sat, 17 Mar: L-Imsallab fi Triqatna. A re-enactment of the
passion of Jesus, through the streets of Victoria.
Sun, 18 Mar: Via Crucis at Ta’ Għammar Hill, Għarb with
meditations based on the teachings of Pope Francis.
Fri, 23 Mar: Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows. A number of
traditional processions take place around the village cores, to
celebrate this religious feast. The Xewkija parish organises an
animated pageant along the old streets of the village.
Sat, 24 Mar: A Concert of Sacred Music, Leone Band Club.
Music, reflections and meditations by the Leone Band, with the
participation of the Aurora Youth Choir and local artists.
Venue: Gozo Cathedral
Sat, 24 Mar: Freedom Day Concert
Location: Victoria
Organiser: Gozo Culture
Sun, 25 Mar: Good Friday Procession. A devotional procession
commemorating the Passion of Christ, with participants
dressed up in rich period costumes, personifying personalities
and biblical characters. The Gozo Cathedral Chapter of Canons
and the Leone Band accompany the procession with funerary
marches.
Location: Gozo Cathedral, and around Victoria centre.
Sun, 25 Mar: Palm Sunday. On the Sunday before Easter,
Jesus’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, is commemorated
with a village procession involving children and adults bearing
palm leaves. In the late afternoon, a children’s procession
commemorates the Passion of Jesus Christ.
Location: Victory Square, Xagħra
Sat, 24 & Sun, 25 Mar: Jesus Christ Superstar (Live Musical).
Andrew LLoyd Webber’s all-time favourite will be staged in
Vicotria.
Location: Astra Theatre
Organiser: La Stella Philharmonic Society, booking on
www.ticketline.com.mt
Fri, 30 Mar: Good Friday Processions. Taking place in various
villages, processions commemorating the crucifixion and
death of Jesus Christ, are events of worship and prayer. The
processions are a spectacle of splendid pegeantry, faithfully
produced to the Gospels’ recount.
Location: Various villages around Gozo
April
Sun, 1 Apr: Easter Sunday joy is celebrated within and beyond
the Gozo Citadel walls and in various other villages including
Kercem, Nadur, Xewkija, Żebbuġ, Qala, Xagħra, Fontana and
Għarb. The statue representing the Resurrected Christ is
paraded with joyful band marches.
Sun, 1 Apr: Hip-Hip Hurray Family Fun on Easter Day
Location: Villa Rundle, Victoria
Sat, 7 Apr: “Ir-Rakkont”, a biblical musical in Maltese about
the death and resurrection of Christ, with original scores by
Mario Vella Cordina.
Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria
Sun, 8 Apr: Fiera tal-Għadira
Organiser: Kerċem Local Council
Sun, 1 – Fri, 29 Apr: Gaulitana: A Festival of Music - 12th
edition. A multifarious programme of events held in various
localities around Gozo starting on Easter Sunday and ending
with an OPERA+ Weekend (Apr 27-29), with Bellini’s operatic
masterpiece Norma on Saturday, 28th April.
28 29
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
Location: Aurora Opera Theatre www.gaulitanus.com
Sat, 21 Apr: Malta International Fireworks Festival (Gozo)
Sun, 28 Apr: The Science in the Citadel (Victoria)
Sun, 29 Apr: The 43rd edition of the Gozo Half Marathon. Run
for it!
The Gozo Half Marathon was organised for the first time in
Xagħra, Gozo on the 6th February 1977. Apart from the half
marathon, the event hosts an 8 mile run, a 4km and a 2km
race for younger athletes, making it an ideal event for the
whole family. The half marathon route is of varying elevation
and takes the participants through various Gozitan villages,
with breath-taking views of the island’s landscape.
May
Sat, 5 May: The Gozo Ultra Trail is one of the most scenic
routes in the Mediterranean. The event consists of a 50km
trail run, 50km MTB challenge and a 21km trail run. The
course is a gorgeous, circumnavigation of the island covering
cliff edge single tracks, lush valleys and water courses, seaside
salt pans, sandy beaches and rocky terrain; in short, you will
experience the whole of the Mediterranean in one race. For the
first time, in 2018, the 21km event will be a Qualifier for the
Xterra Trail Running World Championships that will be held
in Maui!
More details on: www.maltaxterra.com/event/gozo-trail/
Sun, 6 May: Feast of Saint Joseph
The procession with the statue of St Joseph is led by the
three confraternities of the parish followed by the clergy and
the faithful reciting prayers. The Victory Band will be playing
religious marches along the route.
Location: Victory Square and nearby streets, Xagħra
Sat, 19 May: Gozo Alive, Culture in the City. A festival of music,
art and food.
Location: Victoria
Sun, 20 May: Marian Festival – a Christian song festival
organised with the collaboration of the Legion of Mary, Gozo.
Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria
Fri, 25 – Sun, 27 May: International Marian Symposium
Location: Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary, Għarb
Sun, 27 May: Feast of St. Paul, Munxar
June
Sun, 3 Jun: Feast of the Corpus Christi, Għasri
Sun, 10 Jun: Feast of St. Anthony, Għajnsielem
Sun, 17 Jun: Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Fontana
Fri, 22 Jun: Feast of Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu, Għarb
Sun, 24 Jun: Feast of St. John the Baptist, Xewkija
Fri, 29 Jun: Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul, Nadur
Sat, 23 & Sun, 24 Jun: Agricultural & Artisan Fair, a traditional
exhibition of agricultural products and entertainment.
Organiser: Nadur Local Council
13 Jun – 15 Jul: The Victoria International Arts Festival is
Malta’s longest-running Festival, with an uninterrupted
sequence of musical and cultural events spanning five
weeks between June and July. In 2018, the organisers will
be presenting the 21st edition: a concert will be held every
evening, offering the public a total of 40 unmissable concerts.
More information on: www.viaf.org.mt
Thur, 28 Jun: Farm to Fork. Free Tastings - local and
regional food stalls, local bands accompanied by local folk
entertainment, tours in production areas and the traditional
Mnarja dinner at Gozitano Main Square.
Location: Gozitano Complex, Mgarr Road
*Jun: Leone Goes Pop
An open-air concert with live music performances by the Leone
Band. Pop and rock classics are played with the participation
of a line-up of renowned local singers and performers, for an
evening of great music.
Location: Independence Square, Victoria
*Jun: OASI Day Commemorative Celebrations
July
Fri, 6 Jul: Hondoq by Night. A popular music festival in its 7th
edition. This year’s edition will feature top local bands and DJ’s
including Cash & Band, Ira Losco & Band, DJ Ryan Spiteri and
DJ Darco. Hondoq bay will be illuminated with hundreds of
flaming lanterns and special light effects, creating a magical
atmosphere for visitors of all ages to enjoy!
Location: Hondoq Bay
Sat, 7 – Sun, 8 Jul: Figs Festival
A fair of local fig based delicacies and other typical Maltese
products, accompanied by live music
Location: Xagħra, Square
Sun, 8 Jul: Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Kerċem
Sun, 15 Jul: Feast of St. George, Victoria
Sat, 21 Jul: Marsal Mużajk, Marsalforn
Organiser: Gozo Culture office
Sun, 22 Jul: Feast of St. Margaret, Sannat
Sun, 29 Jul: Feast of the Visitation. This religious celebration
includes a spectacular Infiorata, during which an intricate
carpet of fresh flowers with thematic designs, is laboriously
laid in the village square. The infiorata is an old Italian
tradition, the oldest one originating in Gerano, the twin village
of Għarb.
Thu, 26 – Sun, 29 Jul: DCAPITALS Live@Cittadella. A band
concert with the participation of renowned Maltese singers
and the band’s resident singers under the Direction of Mro.
George Apap.
Location: Cittadella Ditch
Organiser: DCapitals
Mon, 30 Jul: Opera Vs Pop Under The Stars. The Gozo Youth
Orchestra in collaboration with the Ministry for Gozo and
Embassy of the United States of America presents: “Opera vs
Pop Under the Stars – 11th Edition”. A programme of classical
and operatic songs and arias, followed by an array of lighter
pop arrangements from soundtracks and musicals.
Location: Villa Rundle Gardens, Victoria
Info and Reservation: [email protected]
August
Mon, 30 Jul – Sun, 5 Aug: Festival at San Lawrenz, featuring
contemporary and traditional dance groups, local talent and a
3D Mapping show on the church façade.
Location: Village Square, San Lawrenz
Sat, 4 Aug: Ceramics Festival
Location: Xlendi
Organiser: Gozo Culture
Sun, 5 Aug: Feast of St. Joseph, Qala
Thu, 9 Aug: Leone Band in concert - The Festa Edition
An open-air celebratory concert as the Leone Band kicks off
its final week of street celebrations in honour of Santa Marija.
Location: Republic Street, Victoria
Sun, 12 Aug: Feast of St. Lawrence
Sat 11 - Wed, 15 Aug: Feast of the Assumption of Our
Lady, Victoria. The Santa Marija festa, a devotional Catholic
celebration, marks the culmination of summer and the height
of the festa season in Gozo. The religious celebrations by the
church, paralleled by lay events are spectacular for any visitor
30 31
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
– with colourful street decorations, joyful band marches and
massive aerial fireworks displays that light up Gozo’s summer
sky. National street horse races are also organised in Victoria
on 15th August.
Fri, 17 Aug: DB Celebration – a special activity for children,
including a Magic show, on the occasion of St. John Bosco’s
birthday.
Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria
Sun, 19 Aug: Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady, Żebbuġ
Sun, 26 Aug: Feast of Our Lady of Loreto, Għajnsielem
Fri, 24 – Sun, 26 Aug: Gozo Film Festival
The second edition of the Gozo Film Festival, featuring local
and international films, is aimed at a discerning audience,
offering open air screenings in a unique, historical setting.
Organiser: The Gozo Film Club
Location: Cittadella
Aug: Għajnsielemfest. A two day event organised as part of the
local festa celebrations.
Location: Għajnsielem Square
Tue 28 – Wed, 29 Aug: Fior D’Argenta. A traditional village
square dinner in Xewkija that brings together a village, in a
celebration that is animated by music, dance, culture and
heritage, culminating in a tradtional bonfire.
Location: Xewkija Square
Wed, 29 Aug: Open-air children’s Summer Concert
Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria
*Aug: Riflessi Sajfin Festival
Organiser: Oasi
Location: Marsalforn
September
Sat, 1 Sept: Jazz Do. An eclectic mix of jazz styles that
entertains an ever-growing crowd against the unique setting
of Mgarr Harbour. Dine out or mingle in a local bar area, while
bands jazz up the atmosphere.
Organiser: Gozo Culture
Sat, 1 Sept: Gozo Edition - Malta International Food Festival
2018
A street food festival. Taste the authentic Asian cuisines, the
fresh Mediterranean delights and genuine Gozitan delicacies.
Your perfect night to discover new tastes, brewery stands and
special wines for a great culinary experience, set in the heart
of a local village.
Location: Xewkija Square
Sun, 2 Sept: Rock Concert, Marsalforn
Organiser: Gozo Culture Office
Fri, 7 Sept: Commemoration of the Great Siege and Second
World War. Re-enactment of the Entrance of the Grand Master
and of a war air-raid.
Location: Victory Square, Xagħra
Fri, 7 Sept: Pyrotechnical Fireworks display at in-Nuffara hill,
Xagħra followed by festive marches on the Square and the
surrounding streets.
Sat, 8 Sept: Feast of Our Lady of Victories, Xagħra
Sun, 9 Sept: Rock Concert at Marsalforn
Organiser: Gozo Culture
Mon, 10 Sept: Stage And Proms On The Sea. The Gozo Youth
Wind Band presents the fourth edition of this spectacularly
staged concert, on a large floating platform at Mġarr Harbour.
Enjoy music in a unique Mediterranean setting, with a
backdrop of sea craft and moonlit sky.
Location: Mgarr Marina
Info and Reservation: [email protected]
Sun, 16 Sep: Feast of Our Lady of Graces, Victoria
Sat, 22 Sept: Traditions - Wine, Olive Oil & Honey festival
Enjoy the best of local produce in one of Gozo’s smallest
villages, Għasri. A quaint village square setting, local folk and
traditions... and the most genuine products to taste and take
home with you. An experience to share.
Location: Village Square, Għasri
Fri, 21 – Sun, 23 Sept: Qala International Folk Festival. A
spectacle of dancing, singing, music and folkloristic costumes
by local and foreign folk groups. Experience local life,
traditions and local food as folk dancers and musicians enliven
three evenings in Qala square.
Location: Village Square, Qala
Organiser: Qala Local Council in collaboration with the Menħir
Qala Folk Group
Sun, 30 Sept: Feast of Jesus the Nazarene. A show of music,
song and a wine-tasting competition.
Location: Ġnien Xibla Street, Xagħra
October
Sun, 7 Oct: OASI Cup Run. The OASI Cup Run encourages
participants to endorse a healthy lifestyle through physical
exercise. The Foundation works towards greater awareness
about the harmful effects of illict drugs and alcohol abuse. The
activity consists of a 10km run, a 5km walk and three runs for
children.
Location: Starts in Victoria
Organiser: Oasi Foundation
Sat, 13 Oct: Opera Night, Tosca by Giacomo Puccini
Location: Aurora Opera Theatre, Victoria
Tickets and further information: www.teatruaurora.com
Sun, 14 Oct: A Celebration of Light. The locally known
Fjakkolata is a spectacle of thousands of burning lanterns
lit over Għar Ilma hill, overlooking the village of Santa Luċija,
Kerċem. This is an old tradition that accompanies village
celebrations in honour of Our Lady of Fatima, with a religiuos
procession in the quaint village square setting. Visitors can
enjoy the festivities including folk dance and traditional food.
Worth a visit!
Organiser: Kerċem Local Council
Fri, 19 Oct: Symphony of lights, a musical concert at Santa
Luċija, Kerċem.
Sat. 20 & Sun 21 Oct: Kite and Wind Festival
Thur, 25 & Sat 27 Oct: La Traviata
Location: Astra Opera Theatre, Victoria
Tickets and further information on: www.teatruastra.org.mt
Thur, 11 Oct – Sat, 24 Nov: Mediterranea. A cultural festival on
the island of Gozo.
Location: Astra Opera Theatre, Victoria
Further information on: www.mediterranea.com.mt
November
Sat, 3 Nov: Leone Band in Concert. An annual symphonic
concert by the Leone Band, with a repertoire varying from
symphonic overtures and opera music to nineteenth and
twentieth century music from the big and small screens and
the world’s most renowned orchestra houses.
Location: Aurora Opera Theatre
Sat 10, Sun 11 & Sat 17 Nov: “Wojtyla – L-Għajta t’Alla”, a
musical production about Pope John Paul II composed and
written by Antoine Mercieca and Joe W. Psaila.
Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria
32 33
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
Sat, 17 Nov: The Annual Grand Concert by La Stella
Philharmonic Band 2018, free entrance.
Location: Astra Opera Theatre
Sun, 25 Nov: Gozo Road Race, Organised by the Gozo Cycling
Club
Location: starts from Xagħra Square
December
Sat, 1 Dec – Sun, 6 Jan 2018: Gozo: Your Choice this
Christmas! A full programme of events spanning five weeks,
from 1st December to the 6th January, celebrating Christmas.
Look out for the detailed Christmas in Gozo brochure closer to
date. More detail on: www.christmasingozo.com
Sat, 1 Dec: The official opening of the Christmas festivities,
with the lighting of the Christmas tree, the Republic street
lights in Victoria, and many other Christmas illuminations that
brighten up the island. Children’s choirs will also participate
and fill Independence square with their angelic voices.
Sun, 2 Dec: Swejjaq, the open Market Christmas Edition at San
Lawrenz village.
Beginning of Dec - Sun, 1 Jan: Bethlehem f’Għajnsielem
Spread on twenty thousand square meters of land, this
nativity village takes visitors back in time to Judea of 2000
years ago, combining local customs and folklore which are
usually associated with the Maltese crib.
Location: Għajsielem
Fri, 7 – Sun, 9 Dec: Gozo International Choir Festival
The International Choir Festival brings together local and
international choir talent, for three evenings of beautiful
choir singing. The events will be held in Gozo churches, for
a wonderful experience of great music, voices and magical
settings with Christmas decor.
Sat, 8 & Sun, 9 Dec: The Christmas Village, hosting a series of
events and activities, including music, beautiful illumination,
food and wine stalls, offers an impressive selections of wine
from 17 different countries and 37 different wine regions.
Various factory tours and presentations will be held, where
visitors have the opportunity to learn and attain first hand
experience of the production of various agricultural products,
including marmalades, olive oil, honey and beer. Gozitano
attractions include production of traditional Christmas sweets,
with the participation of artists, choirs, local bands and Father
Christmas distributing presents.
Location: Gozitano Agricultural Village, Xewkija
Fri, 14 & Sat, 15 Dec: Carols by Candlelight. A choral concert
by Schola Cantorum Jubilate.
Location: St. Augustine’s Priory, Victoria
Sat, 15 Dec: Festival of Light. Organised by Fondazzjoni
ta’ Klula to celebrate the patron saint, Santa Luċija. Santa
Luċija square is decorated with flaming lanterns, bonfire
and animated by children carrying candles in a traditional
procession.
Sun, 16 Dec: Dinja tat-tfal (Chrildren’s world)
This children’s fun park will give the children the opportunity
to meet their favourite characters and enjoy a variety of
activities. Entrance is free of charge.
Location: Gozo Sports Complex, Victoria
Fri, 21 Dec: Nativitate Domini, a Christmas concert
Location: Żebbuġ Parish Church
Sat, 22 Dec: Christmas Parade
A Christmas parade will commence from the lower part
of Republic street, Victoria and will make its way up to
Independence Square. The parade is a Christmas celebration
exhibiting various beautiful characters such as
Father Christmas, snowmen, and numerous other cartoon
characters.
Sun, 23 Dec: Christmas pageant at San Lawrenz Village
Tue, 25 Dec: ‘Twas the night before Christmas. A Christmas
Eve concert from 01:30-02:30hrs featuring guest pop singers.
Location: St. George’s Square
Tue, 25 Dec: Traditional Procession with Baby Jesus. During
this procession children carry the statue of Baby Jesus. The
Victory Band accompanies choirs singing carols.
Location: Dun Gorg Preca Street to the church, Xagħra.
Organiser: MUSEUM boys’ section
Fri, 28 Dec: Grand Christmas Concert, at the Xagħra Basilica
with the participation of a local choir.
Sat, 29 Dec: Christmas Concert by Fondazzjoni Santa Ċeċilja
(A.D. 2013)
Location: St. James Church, Independence Square, Victoria
Mon, 31 Dec: The Rabat, Citta’ Victoria Local Council and the
town’s commercial community, create a festive celebration,
heralding the New Year. The thousands of people who come
to Victoria on the day, have the opportunity to celebrate
together the arrival of the new year, in the historic town
surroundings. Entrance is free of charge.
Location: Independence Square and St. George’s Square
* Content is indicative of highlights of the Gozo cultural calendar and is not comprehensive of all events. For full details, changes to the original programme and for other unlisted events, please check visitgozo.com
Dwejra Gozo | Photo by Terry Camilleri
35
GIV
E M
E G
OZO
| W
WW
.VIS
ITG
OZO
.CO
M
PUBLIC AND NATIONAL HOLIDAYS
Monday, 1 January New Year’s DaySaturday, 10 February Feast of St Paul’s ShipwreckMonday, 19 March Feast of St JosephFriday, 30 March Good FridaySaturday, 31 March Freedom DayTuesday, 1 May Worker’s DayThursday, 7 June Sette GiugnoFriday, 29 June Feast of St. Peter & St. PaulWednesday, 15 August Feast of the AssumptionSaturday, 8 September Victory DayFriday, 21 September Independence DaySaturday, 8 December Feast of the Immaculate Conception Thursday, 13 December Republic DayTuesday, 25 December Christmas Day
GOZO, YOUR NEXT STOP IN THE MEDITERRANEAN
Experience Gozo’s gems, secrets and magnificence, a perfect blend of history and myth, mediterranean culture and cuisine.
History and culture have carved their own story on this island, symbolised by its prehistoric temples, magnificent churches and the towering Citadel. Blessed with a wonderful countryside, pristine beaches, and unique coastline, Gozo is there for you to discover.
Gozo is connected to over ninety six (96) destinations through the Malta International Airport (www.maltairport.com). Once in Malta, drive to Cirkewwa Harbour (approximately one hour) and take the comfortable Gozo ferry for the scenic 25-minute crossing to Mgarr Harbour, gateway to Gozo.
MALTA
GOZO
Designed by Keen Limited (+356) 22156172; (+356) 22156177 [email protected] harvesting | Photo by Ted Attard