Culture & ArtListed by Visitmalta
Festa San Ġużepp in Il-Qala, Gozo
VictoriaSun, Aug 2, 2026 · 12:00 AM – 11:59 PM
Overview
Overview
Join us for a cherished feast that brings together faith, culture, and community. Enjoy colourful processions, prayer, uplifting music, and traditional customs in a joyful celebration where families and friends gather to share devotion, unity, and lasting memories.
Read full details
On Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August, the Gozitan village of Il-Qala celebrates Festa San Ġużepp (St Joseph's Feast), honouring the parish's patron saint. The two-day festa draws visitors from across Malta and Gozo. Marching brass bands parade through Il-Qala's narrow streets, while locals decorate homes, squares and alleyways with flags, flowers and religious statuary. In the evening, a statue of St Joseph is carried through the streets accompanied by hymn-singing and brass band music.
Food stalls along the streets sell imqaret, qubbajt, pastizzi and other Maltese specialities. The celebrations close with fireworks that light up the village sky. For visitors touring Gozo's smaller villages, it is a chance to see a working parish feast rather than a staged tourist event.
What to expect
An authentic two-day Gozitan village festa with brass bands, candlelit processions, elaborate street decorations, and traditional food. Evening fireworks on both nights.
⏱️ 24 hrs
Good to know
- Saturday 1 August & Sunday 2 August 2026, Il-Qala village, Gozo
- Two-day village celebration; evening processions both nights
- Brass band marches and village decorations
- Traditional Maltese food stalls
- Ferry from Cirkewwa (Malta) to Mgarr, then bus to Il-Qala
Frequently asked questions
When is Festa San Ġużepp?
Saturday 1 August and Sunday 2 August 2026.
How do I reach Il-Qala?
Ferry from Cirkewwa (northern Malta) to Mgarr harbour (30 minutes), then local bus to Il-Qala village.
Why is it a two-day celebration?
Many Gozitan festas span two days to allow for full community participation and multiple processions.
Is it a good introduction to Gozo?
Yes, Il-Qala is a quintessential Gozitan village, and the festa showcases the island's strong tradition and community spirit.
Venue & Map
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