OM .C ITGOZO IS .V G OZ A Cultural Guide

to 2018 Events GIVE ME

www.visitgozo.com 1 Carnival

9 – 13 February

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, 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! GIVE ME GOZO | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME Photo by Hush Studios; Cover Photo by Daniel Cilia 2 3 Gozo Faith & Traditions

3 March – 1 April

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 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. GIVE ME GOZO | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME Photo by Shaun Sultana 4 5 Gaulitana Festival of Music

1 – 29 April

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 who will conduct the Philharmonic Orchestra and the Gaulitanus Choir. www.gaulitanus.com GIVE ME GOZO | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME Photo by Shaun Sultana 6 7 GOZO ALIVE

19 May

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. GIVE ME GOZO | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME Photo by CVC Media 8 9 Festi

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!

27 May: Feast of St. Paul, 3 Jun: Feast of Corpus Christi, Għasri 10 June: Feast of St. Anthony, Għajnsielem 17 Jun: Feast of the Sacred Heart of , Fontana 24 Jun: Feast of St. John the Baptist, 29 Jun: Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul, Nadur 8 Jul: Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Kerċem 15 Jul: Feast of St. George, Victoria 22 Jul: Feast of St. Margaret, 29 Jul: Feast of the Visitation, Għarb 5 Aug: Feast of St. Joseph, Qala 12 Aug: Feast of St. Lawrence, 15 Aug: Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady, Victoria 19 Aug: Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady, Żebbuġ 26 Aug: Feast of Our Lady of Loreto, Għajnsielem 8 Sep: Feast of Our Lady of Victories, Xagħra 16 Sep: Feast of Our Lady of Graces, Victoria GIVE ME GOZO | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME Photo by CVC Media 10 11 21st Edition of the Victoria International Arts Festival

13 June – 15 July

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 GIVE ME GOZO | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME Photo by Sam Cefai 12 13 Qala International Folk Festival

21 – 23 September

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. GIVE ME GOZO | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME Photo by Ted Attard 14 15 Fjakkolata A Celebration of Light

14 October

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. GIVE ME GOZO | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME Photo by Daniel Cilia 16 17 Operas in Gozo

28 April 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

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 October Giuseppe 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 GIVE ME GOZO | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME Photo by Joe Attard booking on www.teatruastra.org.mt 18 19 Festival Mediterranea

11 October - 14 November

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 GIVE ME GOZO | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME Photo by Daniel Cilia 20 21 KITE AND WIND FESTIVAL

20 - 21 October

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... GIVE ME GOZO | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME

22 23 Christmas, an island of joy

1 December - 6 January

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 GIVE ME GOZO | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME

Photo from Schola Cantorum Jubilate Archives 24 25 Sun, 11 Mar: FMVA Vintage Motors Festival 2018 Sat, 24 & Sun, 25 Mar: Jesus Christ Superstar (Live Musical). Other Events 2018 Fri, 9 Feb: Organised Carnival in Qala with dance Organiser: [email protected] Andrew LLoyd Webber’s all-time favourite will be staged in performances, costumes, cart floats competitions and the Sat, 17 Mar: A Concert of Sacred Music Vicotria. January kukkanja. Organiser: Fondazzjoni Santa Ċeċilia A.D. 2013 Location: Astra Theatre Location: Village Square, Qala Location: St. James Church, Independence Square, Victoria Organiser: La Stella Philharmonic Society, booking on Mon, 1 Jan: A New Year’s Toast, 6th edition by The Gaulitanus Sat, 10 Feb: Organised Carnival in Xagħra, including carnival Sat, 17 Mar: L-Imsallab fi Triqatna. A re-enactment of the www.ticketline.com.mt Choir floats, carnival dance groups and the traditional kumittiva passion of Jesus, through the streets of Victoria. Fri, 30 Mar: Good Friday Processions. Taking place in various Location: The Kempinski Hotel, San Lawrenz dance. Sun, 18 Mar: Via Crucis at Ta’ Għammar Hill, Għarb with villages, processions commemorating the crucifixion and Organiser: The Gaulitanus Choir, www.gaulitanus.com Location: Village Square, Xagħra meditations based on the teachings of Pope Francis. death of Jesus Christ, are events of worship and prayer. The Sun, 7 Jan: Feast of the Epiphany. The re-enactment of the Sun, 11 Feb: Organised Carnival in Għajnsielem, Xagħra and Fri, 23 Mar: Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows. A number of processions are a spectacle of splendid pegeantry, faithfully arrival of the Three Wise Men and their offering of biblical gifts Xewkija. Carnival in Xewkija celebrates the traditional carnival traditional processions take place around the village cores, to produced to the Gospels’ recount. – gold, incense and myrrh to Baby Jesus. delicacy, the prinjolata, costume competitions and the carnival celebrate this religious feast. The Xewkija parish organises an Location: Various villages around Gozo Location: Victory Square, Xagħra floats parade. animated pageant along the old streets of the village. Sun, 21 Jan: Feast of Saint Anthony the Abbot. A traditional Location: Village Squares, Għajnsielem, Xagħra and Xewkija Sat, 24 Mar: A Concert of Sacred Music, Leone Band Club. April feast including a religious procession and the blessing of Organiser: Għajnsielem, Xagħra and Xewkija Local Councils Music, reflections and meditations by the Leone Band, with the domestic animals. Fri, 9 - Tue, 13 Feb: Organised Carnival activities,Victoria; participation of the Aurora Youth Choir and local artists. Sun, 1 Apr: Easter Sunday joy is celebrated within and beyond Location: Victory Square to Saint Anthony Square, Xagħra Spontaneous Carnival, Nadur Venue: Gozo Cathedral the Gozo Citadel walls and in various other villages including The Victoria Carnival celebrations offer family fun for the Sat, 24 Mar: Freedom Day Concert Kercem, Nadur, Xewkija, Żebbuġ, Qala, Xagħra, Fontana and February young and the young at heart and include parades, dancing Location: Victoria Għarb. The statue representing the Resurrected Christ is and colourful, themed floats. The Nadur carnival is celebrated Organiser: Gozo Culture paraded with joyful band marches. Sun, 4 Feb: Feast of St. John Bosco, Victoria after sunset and attracts thousands of people, many in Sun, 25 Mar: Good Friday Procession. A devotional procession Sun, 1 Apr: Hip-Hip Hurray Family Fun on Easter Day Sun, 4 Feb: The Gozo Youth Wind Band in Concert - Don Bosco disguise and relishing a unique, fun experience. Not to be commemorating the Passion of Christ, with participants Location: Villa Rundle, Victoria Grand Concert 2018 missed! dressed up in rich period costumes, personifying personalities Sat, 7 Apr: “Ir-Rakkont”, a biblical musical in Maltese about An annual musical concert with the participation of Gozo Locations: Republic Street, Victoria; Village Square, Nadur and biblical characters. The Gozo Cathedral Chapter of Canons the death and resurrection of Christ, with original scores by youths. Organisers: Gozo Culture, Nadur Local Council and the Leone Band accompany the procession with funerary Mario Vella Cordina. Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria marches. Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria Organiser: The Gozo Youth Wind Band & Orchestra, March Location: Gozo Cathedral, and around Victoria centre. Sun, 8 Apr: Fiera tal-Għadira [email protected] Sun, 25 Mar: Palm Sunday. On the Sunday before Easter, Organiser: Kerċem Local Council Sun, 4 Feb: Nadur Organised Carnival. A variety of costumes, Sat, 3 Mar – Sun, 1 Apr: Easter Activities, Gozo - Art, Faith Jesus’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, is commemorated Sun, 1 – Fri, 29 Apr: Gaulitana: A Festival of Music - 12th dances, colourful Carnival floats, hilarious sketches, live music and Traditions. A full programme of events in Gozo spanning with a village procession involving children and adults bearing edition. A multifarious programme of events held in various bands & the traditional Kukkanja 4 weeks. Look out for the detailed Easter activities brochure palm leaves. In the late afternoon, a children’s procession localities around Gozo starting on Easter Sunday and ending Location: Village Square, Nadur closer to the date! commemorates the Passion of Jesus Christ. with an OPERA+ Weekend (Apr 27-29), with Bellini’s operatic

Organiser: Nadur Local Council, www.nadur.gov.mt Location: Victory Square, Xagħra masterpiece Norma on Saturday, 28th April. | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME

26 27 Location: Aurora Opera Theatre www.gaulitanus.com art and food. An open-air concert with live music performances by the Leone and the band’s resident singers under the Direction of Mro. Sat, 21 Apr: Malta International Fireworks Festival (Gozo) Location: Victoria Band. Pop and rock classics are played with the participation George Apap. Sun, 28 Apr: The Science in the Citadel (Victoria) Sun, 20 May: Marian Festival – a Christian song festival of a line-up of renowned local singers and performers, for an Location: Ditch Sun, 29 Apr: The 43rd edition of the Gozo Half Marathon. Run organised with the collaboration of the Legion of Mary, Gozo. evening of great music. Organiser: DCapitals for it! Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria Location: Independence Square, Victoria Mon, 30 Jul: Opera Vs Pop Under The Stars. The Gozo Youth The Gozo Half Marathon was organised for the first time in Fri, 25 – Sun, 27 May: International Marian Symposium *Jun: OASI Day Commemorative Celebrations Orchestra in collaboration with the Ministry for Gozo and Xagħra, Gozo on the 6th February 1977. Apart from the half Location: Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary, Għarb Embassy of the United States of America presents: “Opera vs marathon, the event hosts an 8 mile run, a 4km and a 2km Sun, 27 May: Feast of St. Paul, Munxar July Pop Under the Stars – 11th Edition”. A programme of classical race for younger athletes, making it an ideal event for the and operatic songs and arias, followed by an array of lighter whole family. The half marathon route is of varying elevation June Fri, 6 Jul: Hondoq by Night. A popular music festival in its 7th pop arrangements from soundtracks and musicals. and takes the participants through various Gozitan villages, edition. This year’s edition will feature top local bands and DJ’s Location: Villa Rundle Gardens, Victoria with breath-taking views of the island’s landscape. Sun, 3 Jun: Feast of the Corpus Christi, Għasri including Cash & Band, Ira Losco & Band, DJ Ryan Spiteri and Info and Reservation: [email protected] Sun, 10 Jun: Feast of St. Anthony, Għajnsielem DJ Darco. Hondoq bay will be illuminated with hundreds of May Sun, 17 Jun: Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Fontana flaming lanterns and special light effects, creating a magical August Fri, 22 Jun: Feast of Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu, Għarb atmosphere for visitors of all ages to enjoy! Sat, 5 May: The Gozo Ultra Trail is one of the most scenic Sun, 24 Jun: Feast of St. John the Baptist, Xewkija Location: Hondoq Bay Mon, 30 Jul – Sun, 5 Aug: Festival at San Lawrenz, featuring routes in the Mediterranean. The event consists of a 50km Fri, 29 Jun: Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul, Nadur Sat, 7 – Sun, 8 Jul: Figs Festival contemporary and traditional dance groups, local talent and a trail run, 50km MTB challenge and a 21km trail run. The Sat, 23 & Sun, 24 Jun: Agricultural & Artisan Fair, a traditional A fair of local fig based delicacies and other typical Maltese 3D Mapping show on the church façade. course is a gorgeous, circumnavigation of the island covering exhibition of agricultural products and entertainment. products, accompanied by live music Location: Village Square, San Lawrenz cliff edge single tracks, lush valleys and water courses, seaside Organiser: Nadur Local Council Location: Xagħra, Square Sat, 4 Aug: Ceramics Festival salt pans, sandy beaches and rocky terrain; in short, you will 13 Jun – 15 Jul: The Victoria International Arts Festival is Sun, 8 Jul: Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Kerċem Location: experience the whole of the Mediterranean in one race. For the Malta’s longest-running Festival, with an uninterrupted Sun, 15 Jul: Feast of St. George, Victoria Organiser: Gozo Culture first time, in 2018, the 21km event will be a Qualifier for the sequence of musical and cultural events spanning five Sat, 21 Jul: Marsal Mużajk, Sun, 5 Aug: Feast of St. Joseph, Qala Xterra Trail Running World Championships that will be held weeks between June and July. In 2018, the organisers will Organiser: Gozo Culture office Thu, 9 Aug: Leone Band in concert - The Festa Edition in Maui! be presenting the 21st edition: a concert will be held every Sun, 22 Jul: Feast of St. Margaret, Sannat An open-air celebratory concert as the Leone Band kicks off More details on: www.maltaxterra.com/event/gozo-trail/ evening, offering the public a total of 40 unmissable concerts. Sun, 29 Jul: Feast of the Visitation. This religious celebration its final week of street celebrations in honour of Santa Marija. Sun, 6 May: Feast of Saint Joseph More information on: www.viaf.org.mt includes a spectacular Infiorata, during which an intricate Location: Republic Street, Victoria The procession with the statue of St Joseph is led by the Thur, 28 Jun: Farm to Fork. Free Tastings - local and carpet of fresh flowers with thematic designs, is laboriously Sun, 12 Aug: Feast of St. Lawrence three confraternities of the parish followed by the clergy and regional food stalls, local bands accompanied by local folk laid in the village square. The infiorata is an old Italian Sat 11 - Wed, 15 Aug: Feast of the Assumption of Our the faithful reciting prayers. The Victory Band will be playing entertainment, tours in production areas and the traditional tradition, the oldest one originating in Gerano, the twin village Lady, Victoria. The Santa Marija festa, a devotional Catholic religious marches along the route. Mnarja dinner at Gozitano Main Square. of Għarb. celebration, marks the culmination of summer and the height Location: Victory Square and nearby streets, Xagħra Location: Gozitano Complex, Mgarr Road Thu, 26 – Sun, 29 Jul: DCAPITALS Live@Cittadella. A band of the festa season in Gozo. The religious celebrations by the

Sat, 19 May: Gozo Alive, Culture in the City. A festival of music, *Jun: Leone Goes Pop concert with the participation of renowned Maltese singers church, paralleled by lay events are spectacular for any visitor | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME

28 29 – with colourful street decorations, joyful band marches and September Info and Reservation: [email protected] Tickets and further information: www.teatruaurora.com massive aerial fireworks displays that light up Gozo’s summer Sun, 16 Sep: Feast of Our Lady of Graces, Victoria Sun, 14 Oct: A Celebration of Light. The locally known sky. National street horse races are also organised in Victoria Sat, 1 Sept: Jazz Do. An eclectic mix of jazz styles that Sat, 22 Sept: Traditions - Wine, Olive Oil & Honey festival Fjakkolata is a spectacle of thousands of burning lanterns on 15th August. entertains an ever-growing crowd against the unique setting Enjoy the best of local produce in one of Gozo’s smallest lit over Għar Ilma hill, overlooking the village of Santa Luċija, Fri, 17 Aug: DB Celebration – a special activity for children, of Mgarr Harbour. Dine out or mingle in a local bar area, while villages, Għasri. A quaint village square setting, local folk and Kerċem. This is an old tradition that accompanies village including a Magic show, on the occasion of St. John Bosco’s bands jazz up the atmosphere. traditions... and the most genuine products to taste and take celebrations in honour of Our Lady of Fatima, with a religiuos birthday. Organiser: Gozo Culture home with you. An experience to share. procession in the quaint village square setting. Visitors can Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria Sat, 1 Sept: Gozo Edition - Malta International Food Festival Location: Village Square, Għasri enjoy the festivities including folk dance and traditional food. Sun, 19 Aug: Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady, Żebbuġ 2018 Fri, 21 – Sun, 23 Sept: Qala International Folk Festival. A Worth a visit! Sun, 26 Aug: Feast of Our Lady of Loreto, Għajnsielem A street food festival. Taste the authentic Asian cuisines, the spectacle of dancing, singing, music and folkloristic costumes Organiser: Kerċem Local Council Fri, 24 – Sun, 26 Aug: Gozo Film Festival fresh Mediterranean delights and genuine Gozitan delicacies. by local and foreign folk groups. Experience local life, Fri, 19 Oct: Symphony of lights, a musical concert at Santa The second edition of the Gozo Film Festival, featuring local Your perfect night to discover new tastes, brewery stands and traditions and local food as folk dancers and musicians enliven Luċija, Kerċem. and international films, is aimed at a discerning audience, special wines for a great culinary experience, set in the heart three evenings in Qala square. Sat. 20 & Sun 21 Oct: Kite and Wind Festival offering open air screenings in a unique, historical setting. of a local village. Location: Village Square, Qala Thur, 25 & Sat 27 Oct: La Traviata Organiser: The Gozo Film Club Location: Xewkija Square Organiser: Qala Local Council in collaboration with the Menħir Location: Astra Opera Theatre, Victoria Location: Cittadella Sun, 2 Sept: Rock Concert, Marsalforn Qala Folk Group Tickets and further information on: www.teatruastra.org.mt Aug: Għajnsielemfest. A two day event organised as part of the Organiser: Gozo Culture Office Sun, 30 Sept: Feast of Jesus the Nazarene. A show of music, Thur, 11 Oct – Sat, 24 Nov: Mediterranea. A cultural festival on local festa celebrations. Fri, 7 Sept: Commemoration of the Great Siege and Second song and a wine-tasting competition. the island of Gozo. Location: Għajnsielem Square World War. Re-enactment of the Entrance of the Grand Master Location: Ġnien Xibla Street, Xagħra Location: Astra Opera Theatre, Victoria Tue 28 – Wed, 29 Aug: Fior D’Argenta. A traditional village and of a war air-raid. Further information on: www.mediterranea.com.mt square dinner in Xewkija that brings together a village, in a Location: Victory Square, Xagħra October celebration that is animated by music, dance, culture and Fri, 7 Sept: Pyrotechnical Fireworks display at in-Nuffara hill, November heritage, culminating in a tradtional bonfire. Xagħra followed by festive marches on the Square and the Sun, 7 Oct: OASI Cup Run. The OASI Cup Run encourages Location: Xewkija Square surrounding streets. participants to endorse a healthy lifestyle through physical Sat, 3 Nov: Leone Band in Concert. An annual symphonic Wed, 29 Aug: Open-air children’s Summer Concert Sat, 8 Sept: Feast of Our Lady of Victories, Xagħra exercise. The Foundation works towards greater awareness concert by the Leone Band, with a repertoire varying from Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria Sun, 9 Sept: Rock Concert at Marsalforn about the harmful effects of illict drugs and alcohol abuse. The symphonic overtures and opera music to nineteenth and *Aug: Riflessi Sajfin Festival Organiser: Gozo Culture activity consists of a 10km run, a 5km walk and three runs for twentieth century music from the big and small screens and Organiser: Oasi Mon, 10 Sept: Stage And Proms On The Sea. The Gozo Youth children. the world’s most renowned orchestra houses. Location: Marsalforn Wind Band presents the fourth edition of this spectacularly Location: Starts in Victoria Location: Aurora Opera Theatre staged concert, on a large floating platform at ġM arr Harbour. Organiser: Oasi Foundation Sat 10, Sun 11 & Sat 17 Nov: “Wojtyla – L-Għajta t’Alla”, a Enjoy music in a unique Mediterranean setting, with a Sat, 13 Oct: Opera Night, Tosca by Giacomo Puccini musical production about Pope John Paul II composed and backdrop of sea craft and moonlit sky. Location: Aurora Opera Theatre, Victoria written by Antoine Mercieca and Joe W. Psaila.

Location: Mgarr Marina Location: Oratory Don Bosco, Victoria | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME

30 31 Sat, 17 Nov: The Annual Grand Concert by La Stella Sat, 8 & Sun, 9 Dec: The Christmas Village, hosting a series of Father Christmas, snowmen, and numerous other cartoon Sat, 29 Dec: Christmas Concert by Fondazzjoni Santa Ċeċilja Philharmonic Band 2018, free entrance. events and activities, including music, beautiful illumination, characters. (A.D. 2013) Location: Astra Opera Theatre food and wine stalls, offers an impressive selections of wine Sun, 23 Dec: Christmas pageant at San Lawrenz Village Location: St. James Church, Independence Square, Victoria Sun, 25 Nov: Gozo Road Race, Organised by the Gozo Cycling from 17 different countries and 37 different wine regions. Tue, 25 Dec: ‘Twas the night before Christmas. A Christmas Mon, 31 Dec: The Rabat, Citta’ Victoria Local Council and the Club Various factory tours and presentations will be held, where Eve concert from 01:30-02:30hrs featuring guest pop singers. town’s commercial community, create a festive celebration, Location: starts from Xagħra Square visitors have the opportunity to learn and attain first hand Location: St. George’s Square heralding the New Year. The thousands of people who come experience of the production of various agricultural products, Tue, 25 Dec: Traditional Procession with Baby Jesus. During to Victoria on the day, have the opportunity to celebrate December including marmalades, olive oil, honey and beer. Gozitano this procession children carry the statue of Baby Jesus. The together the arrival of the new year, in the historic town attractions include production of traditional Christmas sweets, Victory Band accompanies choirs singing carols. surroundings. Entrance is free of charge. Sat, 1 Dec – Sun, 6 Jan 2018: Gozo: Your Choice this with the participation of artists, choirs, local bands and Father Location: Dun Gorg Preca Street to the church, Xagħra. Location: Independence Square and St. George’s Square Christmas! A full programme of events spanning five weeks, Christmas distributing presents. Organiser: MUSEUM boys’ section * Content is indicative of highlights of the Gozo cultural from 1st December to the 6th January, celebrating Christmas. Location: Gozitano Agricultural Village, Xewkija Fri, 28 Dec: Grand Christmas Concert, at the Xagħra Basilica calendar and is not comprehensive of all events. For full Look out for the detailed Christmas in Gozo brochure closer to Fri, 14 & Sat, 15 Dec: Carols by Candlelight. A choral concert with the participation of a local choir. details, changes to the original programme and for other date. More detail on: www.christmasingozo.com by Schola Cantorum Jubilate. unlisted events, please check visitgozo.com Sat, 1 Dec: The official opening of the Christmas festivities, Location: St. Augustine’s Priory, Victoria with the lighting of the Christmas tree, the Republic street Sat, 15 Dec: Festival of Light. Organised by Fondazzjoni lights in Victoria, and many other Christmas illuminations that ta’ Klula to celebrate the patron saint, Santa Luċija. Santa brighten up the island. Children’s choirs will also participate Luċija square is decorated with flaming lanterns, bonfire and fill Independence square with their angelic voices. and animated by children carrying candles in a traditional Sun, 2 Dec: Swejjaq, the open Market Christmas Edition at San procession. Lawrenz village. Sun, 16 Dec: Dinja tat-tfal (Chrildren’s world) Beginning of Dec - Sun, 1 Jan: Bethlehem f’Għajnsielem This children’s fun park will give the children the opportunity Spread on twenty thousand square meters of land, this to meet their favourite characters and enjoy a variety of nativity village takes visitors back in time to Judea of 2000 activities. Entrance is free of charge. years ago, combining local customs and folklore which are Location: Gozo Sports Complex, Victoria usually associated with the Maltese crib. Fri, 21 Dec: Nativitate Domini, a Christmas concert Location: Għajsielem Location: Żebbuġ Parish Church Fri, 7 – Sun, 9 Dec: Gozo International Choir Festival Sat, 22 Dec: Christmas Parade The International Choir Festival brings together local and A Christmas parade will commence from the lower part international choir talent, for three evenings of beautiful of Republic street, Victoria and will make its way up to choir singing. The events will be held in Gozo churches, for Independence Square. The parade is a Christmas celebration a wonderful experience of great music, voices and magical exhibiting various beautiful characters such as

settings with Christmas decor. | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME Dwejra Gozo | Photo by Terry Camilleri 32 33 GOZO

PUBLIC AND NATIONAL HOLIDAYS GOZO, YOUR NEXT STOP IN THE Monday, 1 January New Year’s Day MEDITERRANEAN Saturday, 10 February Feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck Monday, 19 March Feast of St Joseph Experience Gozo’s gems, secrets and magnificence, a perfect blend MALTA Friday, 30 March Good Friday of history and myth, mediterranean culture and cuisine. Saturday, 31 March Freedom Day Tuesday, 1 May Worker’s Day History and culture have carved their own story on this island, Thursday, 7 June Sette Giugno symbolised by its prehistoric temples, magnificent churches and Friday, 29 June Feast of St. Peter & St. Paul the towering Citadel. Blessed with a wonderful countryside, pristine Wednesday, 15 August Feast of the Assumption beaches, and unique coastline, Gozo is there for you to discover. Saturday, 8 September Victory Day Friday, 21 September Independence Day Gozo is connected to over ninety six (96) destinations through the Saturday, 8 December Feast of the Immaculate Conception Malta International Airport (www.maltairport.com). Once in Malta, drive to Cirkewwa Harbour (approximately one hour) and take the Thursday, 13 December Republic Day comfortable Gozo ferry for the scenic 25-minute crossing to Mgarr Tuesday, 25 December Christmas Day Harbour, gateway to Gozo. GIVE ME GOZO | WWW.VISITGOZO.COM GOZO GIVE ME

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