Why Experience Easter on Gozo?
Easter on Gozo is a truly special season, blending centuries-old traditions with vibrant community celebrations. From before Ash Wednesday to Easter Sunday, the island comes alive with over 100 events, including solemn Holy Week processions, sacred art exhibitions, and joyful festivities for all ages. Whether you’re drawn by faith, culture, or simply the lively atmosphere, Easter on Gozo offers a heartfelt welcome and a memorable glimpse into the island’s unique spirit.
The Lead-Up to Holy Week: Events in March and Early April
Gozo’s Easter season begins well before Holy Week, with a series of exhibitions and concerts that set the tone for this sacred period. These activities are perfect for those looking to experience the anticipation and preparation leading up to Easter.
Event Spotlight
L-IMSALLAB FI TRIQATANA (April 12)
This powerful live reenactment of Christ’s Passion celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2025. Its name translates as ‘The crucified in our streets’, apt as it depicts the last days of Jesus as human being and is acted out in various locations in Victoria’s winding streets. Featuring dramatic performances and historical costumes, it is one of the most moving events of the Easter season. However, viewers should note that the crucifixion scene is graphic and may not be suitable for sensitive audiences.
Holy Week on Gozo: A Time for Reflection and Devotion
Holy Week is the emotional core of Easter on Gozo, offering deeply spiritual experiences that draw both locals and visitors alike.
Palm Sunday (April 13)
The week begins with morning processions in several villages, commemorating Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. Participants carry palm fronds and olive branches as they walk through the streets in solemn reflection.
Maundy Thursday (April 17)
Maundy Thursday is rich with tradition and reflection:
- Mass of the Lord’s Supper: Held in churches across Gozo, this service includes the symbolic washing of feet, commemorating Jesus’ humility and service to his disciples.
- Pilgrimage to Seven Churches: After Mass, many locals and visitors participate in a pilgrimage to seven churches for prayer and meditation on Christ’s Passion. Each church features beautifully decorated Altars of Repose adorned with flowers and candles.
- Last Supper Displays: Villages across Gozo set up life-sized recreations of the Last Supper table, often based on authentic Jewish customs from Christ’s time.
Good Friday (April 18)
Good Friday is one of the most solemn days in Gozo’s Easter calendar. Processions begin at 6:00 PM in Victoria (The Cathedral), Xagħra, Nadur, Żebbuġ, and San Lawrenz.
Highlights of Good Friday Processions:
Life-Sized Statues: Beautifully crafted statues depicting scenes from Christ’s Passion are carried through narrow streets by pallbearers.
Costumed Participants: Devotees dressed as apostles or Roman soldiers add a dramatic element to the processions. Some participants walk barefoot with chains as an act of penance.
Brass Bands: Funeral marches played by local bands enhance the solemn atmosphere.
If you missed L-Imsallab fi Triqatna earlier in April, this is another opportunity to witness its moving depiction of Christ’s suffering.
Easter Sunday (April 20): Joyful Celebrations
Easter Sunday marks the joyous culmination of Holy Week with celebrations across Gozo:
- Procession of the Risen Christ: Morning processions feature statues of the Risen Christ carried through streets accompanied by uplifting music and confetti. In some villages, bearers run with the statue to symbolize Christ’s victory over death.
- Family Fun at Villa Rundle Gardens: From 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, enjoy activities like Easter egg hunts, games, crafts, and entertainment for children in Victoria’s central park—a perfect outing for families.
Cultural Exhibitions
Gozo’s Easter celebrations extend beyond religious observances to include art exhibitions, concerts, and more:
| Exhibition Name | Dates | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eternity in an Hour – Fine Art Exhibition by Luca Cauchi | 19–31 March | Banca Giuratale, Victoria | Sacred art reflecting themes of Easter. Free entry. |
| Mgr Giuseppe Farrugia Exhibit | Until 31 March | Il-Ħaġar Gozo Museum, Victoria | Historical artefacts and sacred objects. Free entry. |
| I Fiori Della Passione | 1–20 April | Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Fontana | Floral art depicting Christ’s Passion. Free entry. |
| Passions | 4–27 April | Banca Giuratale, Victoria | A collection of sacred art. Free entry. |
| Transitions | 5–22 April | Il-Ħaġar Gozo Museum, Victoria | Reflective art exhibition on themes of transformation. Free entry. |
| The Last Supper Exhibition | 5–18 April | Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Fontana & Sannat Parish Hall, Sannat | Life-sized recreations of the Last Supper table based on Jewish customs. Free entry. |
| Sacred Objects and Statues Exhibition | 5–20 April | Xewkija Windmill, Xewkija | Display of sacred statues used in Easter traditions. Free entry. |
| Easter Salt Infiorata | 14–20 April | Visitation Square, Għasri | Colourful salt art installations depicting Easter themes. Free entry. |
Family Friendly easter Events on Gozo
Easter is time to bring the whole family together, and there are some great events taking place for children of all ages to enjoy.
Plan Your Easter Trip to Gozo
Easter coincides with spring on Gozo, making it an ideal time to visit. The island comes alive with sunny skies framing illuminated churches visible across the horizon, and warm weather perfect for outdoor exploration.
With over 100 events planned between March 18 and April 20, 2025, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate Easter on Gozo. From reflective pilgrimages up Ta’ Għammar Hill to joyful Easter Sunday processions—and everything in between—this vibrant island offers something for everyone.
Don’t wait—start planning your trip today! Visit our Gozo Guides for more information about events and accommodations during Easter on Gozo. Let this magical island be your destination for an unforgettable holiday filled with faith, tradition, culture—and a touch of springtime magic!
