This July, the Upper Barrakka Gardens will be transformed into a vibrant hub of Maltese culinary culture as the Valletta Local Food Festival returns for a special edition, taking place from Friday 4th to Sunday 6th July 2025.
“This festival is a celebration of local identity and creativity,” said Minister for Culture, Owen Bonnici. “It brings people together to enjoy food and culture in the heart of the capital, while supporting our local economy.”
This year’s festival will feature over 25 local producers, chefs, and food artisans, offering a rich variety of traditional and contemporary Maltese food and drink. Visitors can expect everything from fresh and fried ġbejniet, sheep’s milk, bigilla, snails, and honey, to mazzola (fried fish), tamal pies, tripe, traditional ħobż biż-żejt, jams, and chutneys.
There will also be plenty of innovation on show, with fig-infused sweets, chocolate-filled kannoli, flavoured salts, and artisanal liqueurs among the highlights.
Agriculture Minister Anton Refalo emphasised the event’s role in sustaining Malta’s farming and culinary traditions. “We remain committed to preserving our agricultural heritage and securing a sustainable future for our local producers.”
A standout feature of the festival will be a live cooking station led by Chef Charles Bone, offering daily demonstrations using fresh local ingredients with a strong focus on Maltese fish and sustainable cooking practices.
The festival’s participants include notable names such as Benna, San Niklaw Farm, the Maltese Goat and Sheep Cooperative, the Malta Beekeepers’ Association, Lucky Star Bakery, and Flavours of Gozo, alongside many others contributing to the celebration of Maltese produce.
Complementing the food offering is an entertaining line-up of live music, with performances from Sarah Bonnici, Tikka Banda, Klinsmann Trio, and The Dropout DJ Brass Band, featuring special appearances by Olivia Lewis, Mike Spiteri, Neville Refalo, and Ritienne.
The Valletta Local Food Festival 2025 is free to attend and open to everyone, providing a wonderful opportunity to savour the tastes, sounds, and community spirit of Malta in one of the capital’s most iconic locations.
