Birgu will once again be illuminated by around 45,000 candles for 'Birgu by Candlelight', which is the highlight of Birgufest 2026, the Ministry for Local Government and Public Works said in a statement. Taking place this year on 9 and 10 October, the event is expected to draw thousands of visitors to the city.
This marks the nineteenth edition of Birgufest, an event that has established itself as a key fixture in Malta's cultural and tourism calendar. The highlight takes place on Saturday 10 October, with 'Birgu by Candlelight'; street lighting is switched off and thousands of candles are lit, creating a unique atmosphere in the historic heart of Birgu.
Details of the Birgufest 2026 programme were announced during the event's official launch, attended by the Minister for Local Government and Public Works Alison Zerafa Civelli and the Mayor of Birgu John Boxall, alongside representatives from the Birgu Local Council and the event organisers. Zerafa Civelli said that the government will continue to strengthen the role of Local Councils and support initiatives that breathe life into communities while promoting the cultural heritage and identity of our localities.
"Through initiatives like Birgufest, we continue to provide a platform for our communities to showcase their identity, while strengthening collaboration between the government, Local Councils, residents, and voluntary organisations," Zerafa Civelli said.
Boxall thanked the Local Government Division and the Malta Tourism Authority for the support and assistance provided to enable Birgufest to take place and continue growing as an event that attracts thousands of people to Birgu.
The Birgufest programme spans two days, commencing at 8:00pm on Friday 9 October, and at 5:00pm on Saturday 10 October. The programme features bands performing in various areas across Birgu, historical reenactments, open museums, church concerts, a short film festival, art exhibitions, traditional festive decorations, traditional food, and various other activities. On Friday evening, a free concert by The Travellers will take place at 10:00pm, while on Saturday, the public can attend 'Tnemnim', an event comprising three separate concerts organised by the Port Region.
The programme also includes an Artisan Market at Couvre Porte, where various artisans will exhibit and sell their handmade creations. The event is organised in collaboration with residents, volunteers, and voluntary organisations, all of whom play a vital role in the preparation and execution of Birgufest.
To facilitate access to Birgu, a special public transport service will operate on Saturday, featuring extended hours on routes 4 and 2, as well as a shuttle service from the Lourdes Bus Stop in Paola to Birgu. A ferry service between Birgu and Valletta will also be available until 1:00am.