Christmas Day 2025
Date: December 25, 2025 (Thursday)
Country: Malta Public Holidays
Description
Christmas Day in Malta is a national public holiday on 25 December. It marks the Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus. People in Malta see it as a very important religious day.
The holiday matters because most Maltese are Roman Catholic. It is a time to reflect on faith, family, and community. Churches and religious life play a central role in how people understand the day.
Christmas Day is also significant as a moment of rest across the country. Schools, government offices, and many businesses close so people can be together. The day helps strengthen national identity through shared beliefs and values.
For Malta, Christmas combines deep religious meaning with a sense of unity. It is one of the most important dates in the yearly calendar. The holiday marks both spiritual reflection and communal belonging.
Traditions
Homes and churches glow with lights and many nativity scenes called presepji. Families visit church for Midnight Mass. People sing carols and join parish concerts and processions. Children often take part in school plays about the nativity.
On Christmas Day families gather for a large lunch. Tables have roast meats, pasta in rich sauces, vegetables and local cakes. After Midnight Mass some enjoy imbuljuta tal-qastan, a warm chestnut and chocolate drink, with small pastries and biscuits.
Visiting relatives and friends is common. People exchange gifts and sweets. Many towns hold community feasts and concerts. The focus is on family time, food, music and keeping old church and village traditions alive.
Travel Tips
Many shops, museums, and public offices are closed on Christmas Day. Public buses run a reduced schedule and taxis can be hard to find. Book transfers and restaurant tables ahead. Carry some cash because some card machines may not work.
Church areas and village centers get crowded for services, so expect traffic and busy streets in the morning and early evening. Stay with your group, watch your belongings, and follow local rules when crossing roads. Enjoy a coastal walk or a quiet village visit for a peaceful, safe holiday experience.