If you are in Gozo at the end of October, keep your evenings free for Daqqa Folk. For three nights, from Friday 23rd to Sunday 25th October 2026, the square in front of the parish church in Qala turns into an open-air stage for folk music, traditional dance and a bit of foreign flavour. The event is organised by the Qala Local Council and entry is free.
What to expect
The listed line-up mixes local folk groups with guests from abroad. Maltese and Gozitan names include Menhir Qala, Tal-Fuklar, Ta’ Ċangura, Ogygia and Ta’ Verna, so expect accordions, guitars, the żaqq bagpipe, tambourines and plenty of old village songs. The Attridge Academy of Irish Dance is coming over from Ireland, and the DCapitals Big Band adds a swing and brass side to the weekend. The organisers have not said which group plays on which night, so if you want to see someone in particular, check the council’s page or just come for more than one evening.
- When: Friday 23, Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 October 2026
- Time: 8pm to 11pm each night
- Where: Qala Square, Triq San Ġużepp, Qala
- Entry: free
Tips for visitors
Qala is a small village, so the square fills up fast once the music starts. Arrive a little early if you want a spot near the stage, and bring a light jacket because late October evenings in Gozo can get breezy on this high eastern side of the island. The bars and snack spots around the square usually stay busy on event nights, which makes it easy to grab a drink or a ftira between acts. Families are welcome and children tend to love the dance groups.
Make a weekend of it: Qala is close to the swimming spot at Ħondoq ir-Rummien, and our guide to things to do in Gozo has ideas for the daytime.
How to get there
Qala is only a few minutes by car from Mġarr Harbour, where the Gozo Channel ferry from Ċirkewwa arrives, so it is one of the easiest Gozo villages to reach from Malta. Parking around the square is limited on event nights, so leave the car on the side streets and walk in. Buses link Qala with Victoria and Mġarr, but late services are less frequent, so check the last bus before you set out. If you are planning a full week of outings, take a look at Malta This Week and our full list of upcoming events in Malta and Gozo.