Kind Reminder: A Long Weekend Is Coming Up!

On 8th September, Malta and Gozo celebrate the Feast of the Nativity of Mary, locally known as Maria Bambina or il-Bambina.

This feast is marked in Xagħra, Mellieħa, Naxxar and Senglea, which see massive traditional celebrations taking place.

Masses, novenas and solemn processions honour the birth of the Virgin Mary, with statues carried through the streets accompanied by bands and parishioners.

The date also carries national significance, as Victory Day or Otto settembre is a public holiday recalling Malta’s resilience during three historic sieges.

These were the Great Siege of Malta by the Ottoman Empire in 1565, the French blockade of Valletta ending in 1800, and the Second World War siege by Axis forces which concluded in 1943.

The day is thus remembered both as il-Vitorja and il-Bambina. A traditional regatta with boat races in the Grand Harbour adds to the commemorations.

This year the feast coincides with the anniversary of the demise of Queen Elizabeth II, the last colonial-era Maltese head of state, giving further resonance to the occasion.

How will you be celebrating?

#MaltaDaily