Għarb is one of the prettiest village squares in Gozo, and on Friday 20 November 2026 its parish church becomes a concert hall for one night. Opera Night in Għarb brings well-loved arias and opera highlights into the Basilica and Collegiate Parish Church of the Visitation of Our Lady, with free entry for everyone.
What to expect
The concert is organised by the Għarb parish and runs from 20:00 to about 22:00. The organisers promise an evening of favourite arias and musical highlights performed by local talent. The full programme and the names of the singers had not been published when we checked, so expect a mix of popular pieces rather than one complete opera.
The church itself is half the reason to go. Its curved baroque facade, often compared to Borromini’s work in Rome, looks lovely when lit up at night, and the acoustics inside suit solo voices very well.
Tips for visitors
- Entry is free, but seating in a village church fills up, so arrive 20 to 30 minutes early.
- Dress respectfully, as this is a working church: shoulders covered is a good rule.
- November evenings in Gozo can feel cool, so bring a light layer for the walk back.
- Make a weekend of it: two days later the same square hosts the Gozo Herbs Festival, and the Ta’ Pinu Basilica nearby hosts the Malta International Piano Festival earlier in the month.
Getting there
Għarb is in the west of Gozo, about ten minutes by car from Victoria. From Malta, take the Gozo Channel ferry from Ċirkewwa to Mġarr, then drive or catch a bus to Victoria and change for Għarb. Late evening buses are less frequent, so check return times before the concert or plan a taxi back. If you are staying in Victoria that weekend, The Prince of Egypt musical also plays on 20 and 21 November.
Details such as the programme can change, so check the Għarb parish page closer to the date.