As the sun sets over the picturesque village of Għajnsielem, a buzz of anticipation fills the air. The streets are a riot of red and white, as families and friends gather, their faces alight with excitement. Tonight, the village is not just a sleepy Maltese hamlet; it’s the heart of a grand celebration, the Feast of St Anthony of Padua.

The feast, held annually on June 13th, is a testament to Għajnsielem’s deep-rooted Catholic faith and vibrant community spirit. The first recorded feast dates back to 1539, making it one of the oldest and most traditional feasts in Malta. The village’s church, dedicated to St Anthony, is the focal point, its towering bell tower a beacon of the festivities.

St Anthony, known for his powerful oratory skills and his ability to find lost items, is a patron saint dear to many Maltese hearts. The feast in Għajnsielem is a culmination of months of planning and preparation by the local parish and the ‘Confraternity of St Anthony’, a religious brotherhood dedicated to the saint.

Walking through the narrow, winding streets of Għajnsielem during the feast is like stepping into a sea of red and white. These colors, symbolizing the saint’s robes, are ubiquitous – from the banners hanging from balconies to the traditional ‘fotot’ (lanterns) that light up the streets. The village’s band club, ‘Għaqda Mużikali Santa Marija’, adds to the festive atmosphere, their music echoing through the streets.

At the heart of it all is the ‘statue of St Anthony’, a revered icon carried through the streets in a grand procession. The statue, dressed in opulent robes and adorned with jewels, is a sight to behold. It’s a moment of profound faith and pride for the villagers, who gather in their finest to witness the spectacle.

No Maltese feast is complete without food, and the Feast of St Anthony is no exception. Street vendors sell everything from traditional Maltese pastizzi and ħobż biż-Żejt (bread with olive oil) to sweet treats like ħelwa tat-Tork (Turkish delight) and qagħaq tal-għasel (honey rings). The aroma of grilled food wafts through the air, drawing in hungry revelers.

For the children, there are games and rides, their laughter adding to the joyous din. The night culminates in a spectacular fireworks display, a dazzling finale that lights up the sky above the village square.

If you’re in Malta in mid-June, the Feast of St Anthony in Għajnsielem is an experience not to be missed. It’s more than just a religious celebration; it’s a testament to Malta’s rich cultural heritage and the strength of its community spirit. So, why not join the villagers in their red and white finery, indulge in some local cuisine, and be part of this centuries-old tradition?

As the villagers say, “Ħajr mal-Festa ta’ Sant’ Antu!” – “Long live the Feast of St Anthony!”