Malta belongs to a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild winters. This climate serves as a backdrop for many outdoor events and traditional ceremonies held throughout the year. Below, the climatic characteristics of each season and major cultural events are summarized.
Spring (March - May)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Around 15°C in March, rising close to 25°C in May
- Precipitation: Winter rains decrease, with more sunny days
- Features: The pleasant wind makes it an ideal season for tourism and outdoor activities
Major Events and Culture
Month |
Event |
Content and Relation to Climate |
March |
St. Joseph's Festival |
Religious event. Processions and masses are held in mild weather |
March |
Easter |
An important Catholic festival. Many outdoor parades take place in the comfortable spring weather |
April |
International Flower Festival |
An event timed with the spring bloom, where the whole town is adorned with flowers |
May |
Food Festival |
A gourmet event where dishes using fresh spring ingredients can be enjoyed |
Summer (June - August)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Often exceeding 30°C, characterized by strong sunlight and dryness
- Precipitation: Very little, with almost no rainy days
- Features: Long daylight hours, active beach and outdoor events
Major Events and Culture
Month |
Event |
Content and Relation to Climate |
June |
International Arts Festival |
Theatres and music events are held throughout, supported by comfortable night weather |
June - August |
Festa (Patron Saint Festival) |
Traditional religious events held in each town. Fireworks and parades are held in sunny weather |
July |
Jazz Festival |
Held in the capital, Valletta. Popular outdoor concerts enjoy the coolness of the night |
August |
Fisherman's Festival |
Cultural event in traditional fishing villages. Many tourists visit during continuous sunny weather |
Autumn (September - November)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: September retains summer-like heat, dropping to around 20°C by November
- Precipitation: Rainfall gradually increases after October
- Features: The end of the tourist season. The climate is stable and pleasant
Major Events and Culture
Month |
Event |
Content and Relation to Climate |
September |
Independence Day |
Outdoor commemorative ceremonies and fireworks take place. Comfortable early autumn weather |
October |
Wine Festival |
Held in conjunction with the harvest period. Enjoying wine and music in gentle weather |
October |
Valletta Night |
Historical architecture is open for free at night. Autumn coolness is suitable for evening tourism |
November |
George Cross Day |
A national commemorative day. While outdoor events are held, care must be taken due to increased rainfall |
Winter (December - February)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Relatively mild at 10-15°C
- Precipitation: Winter sees the highest rainfall. Winds become stronger
- Features: Many brief showers, with sunny intervals during the day
Major Events and Culture
Month |
Event |
Content and Relation to Climate |
December |
Christmas |
The streets are decorated with illuminations, and outdoor markets come to life |
December - January |
New Year and Epiphany |
Despite the winter chill, a festive mood prevails with outdoor events also taking place |
February |
Carnival |
Colorful costume parades occur on sunny days, though rain may lead to cancellations |
February |
St. Paul's Shipwreck Day |
An outdoor religious event. Warmer clothing is necessary as winds pick up during this season |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Relationship
Season |
Climate Characteristics |
Major Event Examples |
Spring |
Warm and pleasant winds |
Easter, Flower Festival, Food Festival |
Summer |
Hot and dry, with continuous sunny weather |
Festa, Arts Festival, Jazz Festival |
Autumn |
Heat eases and rainfall increases gradually |
Independence Day, Wine Festival, Valletta Night |
Winter |
Mild but rainy and windy |
Christmas, Carnival, St. Paul's Shipwreck Day |
Additional Notes
- In Malta, cultural events are concentrated in the stable climates of spring and autumn.
- Summer sees many tourist and religious events, necessitating temperature precautions.
- Even in winter, it remains milder compared to other countries, with a number of outdoor events held.
- Event scheduling is sensitive to weather changes; checking the weather forecast shortly before is crucial.
Seasonal events in Malta reflect the characteristics of the Mediterranean climate while evolving with historical and religious backgrounds. The unique blend of climate and culture offers significant appeal to tourists throughout the year.