On the evening of Sunday 1 November 2026, All Saints’ Day, Gozo celebrates Mixegħla tal-Qaddisin, a quiet and very photogenic night of candlelight. From 18:00 until late, church forecourts and public spaces are lit with thousands of small candles laid out in patterns, religious symbols and artworks. Entry is free. The evening is organised by the Events Unit of Gozo’s Cultural Heritage Directorate.
What is Mixegħla tal-Qaddisin?
The name means roughly “the lighting of the saints”. It links to the old Maltese and Gozitan habit of lighting candles and oil lamps in early November, when families remember the saints and their loved ones who have died. The modern event turns that tradition into an open-air display, with sacred music and a calm, family-friendly atmosphere. It is less of a party and more of an evening walk, so think of it as the gentle autumn cousin of the Fjakkolata torch-lit celebration held in October.
What to expect
- Church squares and forecourts covered with candle designs, best seen after sunset.
- Sacred and choral music in some locations.
- A slow, reflective mood – many locals combine it with church visits for All Saints.
When we wrote this, the organisers had listed the event only as “various locations” and had not published the exact list of villages or the full programme. Check the Events in Gozo listings or call the Events Unit on 2210 0152 (office hours) a few days before.
Tips for visitors
Come after dark, around 18:30 or later, when the candles look their best. Wear comfortable shoes, keep children close to the flames and be respectful, as these are church spaces on an important religious day. The same day you can enjoy the Sweet Tooth Festival at Villa Rundle in the afternoon, and if you arrive a day or two early, Halloween in Nadur is on Friday 30 October.
How to get there
Take the Gozo Channel ferry from Ċirkewwa or the fast ferry from Valletta to Mġarr. Buses link Mġarr with Victoria and most villages, but evening services are less frequent, so a car, taxi or ride app is easier if you plan to see more than one square. For more ideas for your weekend, see our guide to things to do in Gozo.