A tiny European island is home to wonderful festivities and Christmas markets throughout December — and even has temperatures that remain high enough to wear t-shirts
A tiny island in the middle of the Mediterranean spanning only 17 miles long and nine miles wide, completely transforms every Christmas — but retains t-shirt weather temperatures.
The serene Malta the world’s tenth-smallest country by area, but offers many British holidaymakers the dream escape during the summer season. However, due to its Mediterranean climate in the winter months, the temperature remains warm even when the festive atmosphere arrives.
Throughout December, Malta can reach highs of 17 degrees Celsius, dropping to 11 degrees in the evenings. While not summer sun temperatures, the country is certainly warm enough for Brits to wander around in t-shirts, making it the ideal destination for a not-so-crisp Christmas. Over the festive period, Malta is also home to several extravagant and magical Christmas markets.
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Fairyland Santa’s City in Valletta
Fairyland in Valetta is an annual tradition in Malta, that takes place at Pjazza Tritoni outside Valletta’s City Gate. From a carousel and Ferris wheel, to an ice skating rink, Fairyland has many elements to explore. There is also a stage with live performances and an artisan market, where visitors can purchase one-of-a-kind handmade gifts. Fairyland will be open from December 8 to January 7.
Hilltop Gardens Christmas Market in Naxxar
The annual Hilltop Gardens Christmas Market is all about community. This year, it will take place on November 30 and December 1. The two-day event offers a variety of shopping experiences with 20 local vendors.
In addition to the wonderful stalls, the market will offer a range of aromatic seasonal drinks and treats. Or for anyone wanting something larger to eat, they can head to The Orchard within the gardens, which will serve a seasonal menu designed to celebrate the best of festive flavours.
Valletta Waterfront
The waterfront in Valetta also comes alive for Christmas. From November 25 to January 6, holidaymakers can explore the waterfront which will be home to a 35ft Christmas tree, Santa’s house, workshop, and many of Christmas’ original characters, including a 20ft nutcracker soldier. The waterfront is also not short of restaurants for families wanting to grab a bite to eat while enjoying the festivities.
Natalis Notabilis in Rabat
Natalis Notabilis returns to Rabat between December 7 and 13, marking its comeback after a few years’ absence. Natalis Notabilis is one of Malta’s largest Christmas markets and presents itself as the ultimate winter wonderland. Ravar’s charming streets are transformed into whimsical paths of festive cheer, featuring stalls selling various artisanal products and traditional Maltese Christmas treats.
Kirkop Christmas Market
Though dates are yet to be announced for the Kirkop Christmas Market, the gigantic festive fare is well worth keeping an eye out for. The entirety of Kirkop’s village streets transform into a Christmas paradise, featuring stalls selling small gifts and festive decorations. However, most people head to Kirkop at Christmas to see the village’s immersive nativity scene, which uses many decorations and lights.
Santa’s Little Astronauts Christmas Event
For something a little different, Santa’s Little Astronauts is a 360-degree Christmas-themed visual show with full panoramic projection.
The event takes place inside The Mercury Christmas Dome, where kids can lie back with their parents and be mesmerised by festive scenes that play out on the dome around them. The event will take place on December 7 and 8. Return flights to Malta cost as low as £38 for December and are available at multiple airports across the UK including Manchester, Edinburgh and London Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton and Stansted.
