Malta’s Victory Day Holiday Celebrates Four Historic Victorious Moments

Malta’s Victory Day is a public holiday that uniquely blends history, religion, and national pride, commemorating four significant milestones in the island’s past.

The day honours the courage and resilience of the Maltese people during pivotal moments in history, including the Great Siege of 1565, the end of French rule in 1800, and the surrender of Italy in World War II in 1943. It also coincides with the religious feast of the Nativity of Mary, locally known as Il-Bambina.

On Victory Day itself, the Armed Forces of Malta parade through the city, paying tribute to the Prime Minister and the nation, while a special mass is held for senior officers at the Co-Cathedral of St. John. The President of Malta also honours the victims of World War II by laying a symbolic garland at the Great Siege monument.

A highlight of the celebrations is the traditional regatta in the Grand Harbour, where regatta clubs from Cospicua, Vittoriosa, Birżebbuġa, Marsa, Marsamxett, Kalkara, and Isla compete in thrilling races that showcase Malta’s maritime heritage.

Across the islands, villages such as Xagħra, Naxxar, Senglea, and Mellieħa celebrate the Nativity of Mary with processions and religious festivities, adding a spiritual dimension to the historic celebrations.

Victory Day remains a deeply cherished occasion in Malta and Gozo, symbolising resilience, faith, and national pride.

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