Every month is important to Malta’s tourism calendar, but September is a mega-month of heritage and cultural events. In most European countries, September marks the end of summer but in the Maltese Islands, it means a lot more, with two significant anniversaries on the calendar: The 8th and 21st.
September is also one of the country’s sunniest months, with an average of 10 hours of sunshine per day.
So pack your bags and prepare to ring in the final moments of summer in small but mighty Malta.
September in Malta’s History
The most influential events in the recorded history of the Maltese Islands took place during September and remain outstanding commemoration dates, the most important of which is the 8th of September.
In 1565 on this date, the gigantic forces of the Ottoman Empire ceased their invasion of Malta, a place they considered an essential foothold to further planned invasions of Europe. The commanding Knights of the Order of St John of Jerusalem, under Grandmaster Jean Parisot de La Valette, declared the day as Victory Day for Malta, Europe and Christianity. Queen Elizabeth I of the United Kingdom also considered this a victory that “has saved Christianity in Europe”.
Coincidentally, the 8th of September is also the feast of the Nativity of Our Lady. And even more remarkably, on the 8th of September, 1944, the Italian Fleet surrendered in Malta’s Grand Harbour, marking the beginning of the end of World War II.
Independence Day on the 21st of September 1964 is another major heritage day when, after 2,000 years of foreign domination over Malta and its land and marine territory, the Government of Great Britain declared Malta to be a free and independent country.
The declaration brought myriad changes to the Maltese Islands, making them what they are today.
September 6-15, 2024 means Malta Pride. (photo by Martin Galea De Giovanni CC BY-SA 4.0)
Not to Miss in September
For visitors, September is an electrifying celebration of history, culture, music, dance, food, science, art , and more. Here is just a small sampling of what to do in Malta in September:
September 2, 9, 16 & 20 Flavours of Malta Kids’ Cooking Classes
Budding young chefs can roll up their sleeves at cooking courses held at the historic Inquisitor’s Palace in Birgu are headed by qualified museum educators and provide hands-on cooking with cultural insights. Participants learn to create delicious Maltese dishes such as zżar mimli bir-ross (rice-stuffed bell peppers) and Swiss roll whilst exploring their historical roots. Sessions are bilingual. Sign up here
September 6-15 Malta Pride
Diversity is in Matla’s DNA and over the last two decades, Malta has proudly achieved the status of LGBTIQ+ friendly place, ranking top of the ILGA Europe Rainbow Index for five years in a row! During September, you can find parades, concerts, discussions and more around Malta and Gozo. See the full events listing here
The Great Siege Monument in Valletta, Malta, is the setting for an 8th of September commemoration (photo by Matthew Axiak CC BY-SA 4.0)
September 8
This national holiday marks three significant victories that the Maltese people have had throughout history (see above). Festivities begin two days prior with a commemorative evening event held in front of the Great Siege Monument in Valletta, where there is usually a speech and a wreath-laying ceremony.
On the 7 September, a mass (led by the Bishop of Malta) is held in the evening, in Mellieħa, Senglea, Naxxar and Xagħra (Gozo), the localities that celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Victories. The location of this mass changes annually from one town to another.
On 8 September, the President of Malta and the Chairman of the National Feasts Committee place flowers on the Great Siege monument in Valletta. Wreaths are also laid on the graves of the Great Siege victims in Fort Saint Angelo, the Victory Monument in Vittoriosa, the Monument of Victories in Senglea and the World War II graves in Addolorata Cemetery. In the afternoon, a rowing Regatta is held in Valletta’s Grand Harbour.
Kids can learn to cook stuffed peppers with rice at the historic Inquisitor’s Palace in Birgu September 2, 9, 16 and 20 (photo by Maltese Mouthful)
September 13-17 LIQUID SPIRIT Gozo
LIQUID SPIRIT Gozo is a four-day dance music festival that brings a stellar international DJ and PA line-up from across the house and soul spectrums to Malta’s sister island.
This long weekend (Thursday – Tuesday) island takeover will offer a series of exclusive events in unique locations, including villa, pool, club, and boat parties, as well as pop-ups, foodie events, and more. www.liquidspiritgozo.com/
Malta’s September calendar is filled with concerts, festas, parades, and commemorative historical events (photo from Pixabay)
September 21
Independence Day has been celebrated every year since 1964 when Malta attained its independence from the UK. Several events will take place in different settings around the islands, including in the capital city of Valletta.
As 2024 marks the 60th anniversary, visitors can expect the highest of pomp and circumstance, including military and police parades, and various exhibitions.
In August it was announced that the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, Prince Edward and his wife Sophie, would visit Malta between 7-10 October in honor of the 60th anniversary of Malta’s Independence. The Duke of Edinburgh is King Charles III’s second brother and was the youngest child of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, the former Duke of Edinburgh.
September 27-29 Malta International Folk Festival
During the three days of this International Festival (free admission) expect outdoor parades and musical performances to be held: Friday 27th September in Bugibba, Saturday 28th September in Zejtun, Sunday 29th September in Valletta.
September 8 (Victory Day) and September 21 (Independence Day) are national holidays in Malta and visitors can enjoy commemorative events in the capital and beyond (Photo from Pixabay)
September 27-28 Science in the City
The capital city of Valletta is transformed into a stage for science and art with hands-on installations, theatre, science shows, live experiments and talks. The two-day event will be held in Triton Square and Sala San Duminku, celebrating the creativity and innovation of artists and scientists.
Without a doubt, residents and visitors alike come out in droves to enjoy the beauty of Malta as the summer winds down.
See you in September!
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BeSeeingYou In: Malta
Good To Know: Open activities and participation for all
WOW! Factor: Malta’s weather in September
Tip: Some events require tickets so check ahead
Author bio: Albert Fenech
email – salina46af@gmail.com
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