Statue of the stations of the cross, Ta Ghammar Hill, Gozo.

Easter on Gozo 2026

By Kerry Gaffney | Last Updated 17/02/2026

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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. In 2026, Lent starts on Wednesday 18 February and Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday 29 March and ends with Easter Sunday of 5 April.

Easter Event Spotlight

There are a huge amount of events that take place on Gozo during Lent and Holy Week every year, these are our recommendations for the ones that you shouldn’t miss.

L-Imsallab Fi Triqatna (Crucification in Our Streets)

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The Passion Play, the dramatic reenactment of the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ originated in Europe in the Middle Ages. The most famous is performed in the alps of Bravaria in the village of Oberammergau and has been staged once every decade since 1634.

On Gozo, this powerful live reenactment of Christ’s Passion began in 2000, recently celebrating its 25th anniversary. The name translates as ‘The crucified in our streets’, apt as it depicts the last days of Jesus and is acted out in various locations in Victoria’s winding streets.

Featuring dramatic performances and historical costumes, it begins at 19:30 in Pjazza Santu Wistin, with both the actors and audience moving throughout the city over the next two and half hours.

It is one of the most moving events that I have experienced on Gozo during the Easter season. However, you should note that the crucifixion scene is quite graphic and may not be suitable for sensitive audiences.

Serata Mużiko-Letterarja

An evening of music and literature at the stunning Rotunda St. John Baptist Parish Church in Xewkija. The Prekursur Band will perform under the direction of Maestro Marvin Grech, entwined with the poetry of Mario Borg. This free concert takes place at 19:30 on Saturday 21 March.

Fi Triq Lejn L-Għolja

A special concert taking place on Tuesday 24 March, starting at 20:00, in Gozo’s Cathedral. Featuring the Leone Band Club, under the direction of Maestro Colin Attard, and accompanied by the Aurora Youth Choir.

Our Lady of Sorrows

On Friday 27 March, there will be a series of solemn processions in the villages of Gozo, starting with Żebbuġ at 17:00, that will meditate on the profound sorrows of the Virgin Mary. There will also be a mass taking place at the Church of St James in Victoria.

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 (29 March)

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 (2 April)

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. This year there’s a live re-enactment of The Last Supper in Pjazza Madonna Ta’ Loreto, Għajnsielem, which starts at 20:30.

Good Friday (3 April)

Good Friday is one of the most solemn days in Gozo’s Easter calendar. Processions begin at 17:30 in Victoria (St George’s Basilica), Xagħra, Nadur and Żebbuġ

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 (5 April): Joyful Celebrations

Easter Sunday marks the joyous culmination of Holy Week with celebrations across Gozo:

  • Procession of the Risen Christ: Processions in different villages throughout the day will see statues of the Risen Christ carried through streets accompanied by uplifting music and confetti. In some villages, bearers run with the statue to symbolise Christ’s victory over death. The first procession will take place in St George’s Square, Victoria at 08:45 and the final will be in Xagħra at 18:00.

  • Family Fun at Villa Rundle Gardens: It’s Hip Hop Hurray! 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.

The Lead-Up to Holy Week: Events in February, March and Early April

Easter on Gozo 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.

Cultural Exhibitions

Gozo’s Easter celebrations extend beyond religious observances to include art exhibitions, concerts, and more:

Exhibition NameDatesLocationDetails
Is-Salib, Ġesù u Int18 February – 12 AprilPjazza Madonna Ta’ Loreto, GħajnsielemA large cross exhibited in a garden, reflecting contemporary life.
Consummatum Est02 March – 01 AprilOur Lady of Divine Grace Sanctuary, VictoriaAn immersive journey through the Easter narrative.
Anime Christi05 March – 04 AprilNadur Square, NadurExhibition of the Stations of the Cross.
Wirja Golgota06 March – 11 MarchXagħra Band Club, Xagħra Exhibition by local artist Manwel Gauci depicting the Passion of Christ.
Nippreparaw fi Żmien ir-Randan07 MarchChurch of Our Lady of Pompei, VictoriaA literary feature reflecting spiritual preparation for the Passion of Christ.
I Fiori Della Passione13 March – 05 AprilSacred Heart of Jesus Church, FontanaA flower installation celebrating renewal, devotion, and spiritual reflection.
O Quam Tristis13 MarchOratorju Don Bosco, VictoriaA profound musical meditation on sorrow, sacrifice, and hope.
Crux Redemptoris18 MarchQala Parish Church, QalaA musical spiritual reflection for the Lenten season.
L-Aħħar Ċena20 March – 03 AprilSacred Heart of Jesus Church, FontanaAn immersive installation depicting the Last Supper.
Ħtija Tiegħi – Wirja ta’ Arti Sagra22 March – 05 AprilKunvent Santu Wistin, VictoriaAn exhibition exploring the sacrifice, devotion, and the timeless mystery of the Passion.
Ecce Mater22 MarchKunvent Santu Wistin, VictoriaA concert centered on femininity.
Ave Crux Spes Unica26 March – 02 April24, Triq Santa Marija, VictoriaAn exhibition meditating on Christ’s passion, sacrifice and love.
Hebdomada Sancta27 March – 04 AprilTa’ KerċemA series of installations to mark Holy Week 2026.

Family-Friendly Easter Events on Gozo

Easter is a time to bring the whole family together, and there are some great events taking place for children of all ages.

The Magro Easter Family Fest

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Games, surprises and lots of fun activities for the whole family

Date: Saturday, 21 March 2026
Time: 10:00 -13:30
Cost: Free
Location: Savina Artisan Centre, Ix-Xewkija

Togħma Tajba Tal-Għid (Good Taste of Easter)

A hands-on workshop for children how to prepare traditional foods and sweets. They will learn about the history of the treats they make whilst baking, decorating and tasting!

Date: Saturday 28 March 2026
Time: 09:30
Cost: Free
Location: Xagħra Youth Centre, Xagħra

Traditional Maltese Figolli, shaped like an Easter egg, in a box on wrinkled brown paper bag.

Unleashing Easter Delight

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A wonderful opportunity to for children to make their own Easter eggs! Pre-registration is required and can be done through the Għarb Council Facebook page.

Date: Sunday, 29 March 2026
Time: 14:00 -17:00
Cost: Free
Location: Visitation Square, Għarb

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 18 February and 5 April, 2026, 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!

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