Easter in Malta – Local Traditions & Easter Vocabulary

A Glimpse into Malta’s Easter Celebrations

Easter in Malta is a truly special time, steeped in centuries-old traditions, solemn processions, and heartfelt celebrations. As a predominantly Catholic country, Malta observes Holy Week and Easter Sunday with great devotion, blending religious customs with local flavors and unique Maltese traditions.

Like in many Catholic countries, Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday, a day that commemorates Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, marking the beginning of His passion. Many churches distribute palm branches to worshippers who gather to celebrate this significant moment in the Christian calendar.

Holy Week is one of the most important periods in Christianity, symbolizing the final days of Jesus Christ’s earthly life. It is a time rich in liturgical ceremonies, spiritual reflection, and cherished folk traditions, making Easter in Malta a deeply moving and unforgettable experience.

Maltese people take part in solemn yet beautiful processions through the streets of towns and villages, commemorating the passion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter Sunday, in particular, is a day of joy and celebration, marking the triumphant moment of Christ’s resurrection with a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

To better understand how Easter is celebrated in Malta, we spoke with our Maltese teachers – Kristina, Andrew, and Michael – who generously shared their personal memories, customs, and favorite Easter foods.

The Importance of Easter in Malta: Reflection, Devotion, and Joy

For many people, Easter in Malta is as significant as Christmas, but for very different reasons. Kristina explains:

“Easter in Malta is as important as Christmas – just for different reasons.”
— Kristina

While Christmas is a time of giving and joy, Easter is a deeply spiritual period marked by self-discipline, reflection, and devotion. The season begins on Ash Wednesday, marking the start of Lent—a period of fasting and penance that lasts for 40 days.

“It starts on Ash Wednesday – that’s when we begin Lent. No chocolate, no sweets… some people even avoid fish and meat for all 40 days, while others do so only on Fridays.”
— Kristina

This act of sacrifice prepares the people of Malta for Easter Sunday, the day of Christ’s Resurrection, when the sorrow of Lent gives way to joy and celebration.

It’s a moment of renewal and hope—a reminder that after periods of darkness, light always returns. On Easter Sunday, the festive atmosphere takes over, bringing families together to celebrate with food, fun, and traditional customs.

Easter Traditions in Malta: Figolla, Processions, and Family Meals

One of the most beloved Easter traditions in Malta is the making of figolla, a sweet almond-filled pastry that comes in a variety of shapes, such as lambs, fish, or even rabbits. For Kristina, figolla is more than just a treat—it’s a symbol of the joy that Easter brings.

“In my opinion, it’s one of the best sweets you could ever have.”
— Kristina

For Andrew, figolla represents the culmination of the fasting period: a sweet reward after 40 days of abstaining from chocolate and sweets.

“It’s like a big cookie with a marzipan filling – almonds, lemon, sugar, and water. You see figolli in shops everywhere now, in all different shapes and colors.”
— Andrew

For many families, figolla is not just about eating—it’s about family bonds and personalization. Michael fondly remembers his grandmother’s tradition of baking figolli with names written on them for each family member.

“When I think of figolla, I think of my grandmother. She always brought us figolli with our names written on them – one for me, one for my brother, and one for my sister.”
— Michael

In addition to figolla, Easter Sunday is marked by family gatherings and special meals. Michael recalls how his family would prepare a three-course meal with soup, meat, or chicken, followed by a dessert.

“My family comes to our house and we prepare a three-course meal – some soup, meat or chicken, and a dessert. But really, it’s about being together.”
— Michael

For many, Easter is not just about the food, but about celebrating togetherness and sharing joy with loved ones.

To summarize, Easter in Malta is a celebration of faith, tradition, and family. From the solemn processions of Good Friday to the joy of Easter Sunday, it’s a time for spiritual reflection, personal sacrifice, and festive joy. The traditions, like the figolla and Easter egg hunts, not only mark the religious observance but also highlight the importance of family gatherings and shared memories. If you ever find yourself in Malta during Easter, you’ll experience a holiday that blends the sacred with the joyful, the reflective with the celebratory.

If you want to learn more about how Easter is celebrated in Malta, check out the links below:

Easter in Malta-Mediterranean climate, enjoy processions

Easter Sunday in Malta 2025 | Easter Processions In Malta