Every June, the sleepy village of Għajnsielem in Gozo transforms into a vibrant celebration of faith, family, and community. The Feast of St Anthony of Padua, held on the Sunday closest to the saint’s birthday on June 13th, is a highlight in the Maltese Islands’ religious calendar. But what makes this feast so unique, and why does it draw thousands of locals and tourists alike?

The feast’s origins date back to the 17th century when a statue of St Anthony was brought to Għajnsielem from Rome. The villagers, grateful for the saint’s intercession in their lives, decided to honor him annually. Today, the feast is a blend of religious devotion, cultural heritage, and good old-fashioned fun.

At the heart of the feast is the Statue of St Anthony, housed in the parish church of Għajnsielem. The statue, dressed in elaborate robes and adorned with jewels, is carried in a procession through the village streets. The red and white colors of the feast, symbolizing the saint’s robes, are everywhere – from the banners hanging from balconies to the fireworks that light up the night sky.

The feast begins with a Marian procession on the Saturday evening, led by the local band club. The following day, the main procession sets off from the church, winding its way through the narrow streets of Għajnsielem. The statue is carried on a traditional Maltese carriage, decorated with flowers and candles, while the band club plays a lively tune.

But the highlight of the feast is undoubtedly the fireworks display. Għajnsielem is famous for its fireworks, and the feast is no exception. The sky over the village is filled with a dazzling display of colors, lights, and explosions, reflecting on the calm waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The best view is from the Xewkija Hill, a short walk from the village, where you can see the entire spectacle unfold.

No Maltese feast would be complete without food, and the Feast of St Anthony is no exception. The streets are lined with food stalls, selling everything from pastizzi and imqaret to fenkata and rabbit stew. The aroma of grilled food fills the air, and the sound of laughter and chatter creates a lively atmosphere.

But the feast isn’t just about food and fireworks. It’s also a chance to celebrate Għajnsielem’s unique folklore. The Għajnsielem Folklore Group performs traditional Maltese dances and songs, dressed in colorful costumes that reflect the village’s history.

For those interested in the spiritual side of the feast, the St Anthony Chapel in Xagħra is a must-visit. The chapel, dedicated to the saint, is filled with ex-voto offerings – small paintings or sculptures left by devotees as a token of gratitude for the saint’s intercession.

Għajnsielem is a short ferry ride from Ċirkewwa in Malta, and the village is easily accessible by bus from the Gozo ferry terminal. The feast is a great opportunity to explore the rest of Gozo, with its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and traditional villages.

If you’re interested in getting involved, the Għajnsielem Parish Committee welcomes volunteers to help with the organization of the feast. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local community and make new friends.

The Feast of St Anthony of Padua is more than just a religious celebration. It’s a testament to Għajnsielem’s rich history, vibrant culture, and strong community spirit. As the village prepares for next year’s feast, there’s a sense of anticipation and excitement in the air. So, mark your calendars for June 2023, and join us in Għajnsielem for a feast you won’t forget.

As one local resident put it, “The Feast of St Anthony is more than just a celebration. It’s a way of life. It’s about coming together, giving thanks, and enjoying the simple things in life.”