Every Christmas, Villa Rundle Gardens in the heart of Victoria turns into one of the prettiest free evening walks in Gozo. The old public garden, just off Republic Street, is filled with light installations, glowing trees and festive decorations, and it quickly becomes the place where Gozitan families meet after dark during the holiday season.
When and where
- Lights switch on: Saturday 28 November 2026, from 20:00
- Runs until: early January 2027 (local listings show it continuing to around 6 January)
- Daily hours: listed as 07:00 to 22:30, but the lights are best enjoyed after sunset
- Christmas Market: Sunday 29 November 2026, 10:00 to 18:00, inside the gardens
- Entry: free
The same weekend also marks the start of the wider Christmas in Gozo programme, with a free opening show at Teatru Astra on the evening of 28 November.
What to expect
Expect paths lined with lights, decorated trees and photo spots that are popular with children. On market day there are stalls with handmade gifts, local sweets and seasonal food, so it is a good chance to pick up something Gozitan to take home. If you are planning a festive tour of the islands, our guide to Christmas markets in Malta and Gozo lists other markets worth adding to your weekend.
Tips for visitors
- Come after 17:00, when it is dark enough for the lights to look their best.
- Combine your visit with a walk up to the Citadel, which is only a few minutes away and is beautifully lit at night.
- Weekends are busiest, especially market day. Weeknights are calmer for photos.
- Exact times for side activities can change, so check local listings close to the date.
How to get there
Villa Rundle Gardens are on Republic Street in Victoria, close to the main bus terminus, so almost every Gozo bus route will get you there. Parking in the centre fills up quickly in the evening, so walking from a car park on the edge of town is often easier. Coming from Malta? Take the ferry from Ċirkewwa to Mġarr and then a bus or taxi to Victoria, about 15 minutes away. Our Gozo day trip guide explains ferry times and costs, and you can find more ideas in things to do in Gozo. For the bigger picture of the season, read Malta in December.