Every June, the sleepy village of Għajnsielem in Gozo transforms into a vibrant spectacle of red and white. The Feast of St Anthony of Padua, celebrated on the Sunday closest to the saint’s birthday, is not just a religious event; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and tradition that draws thousands of locals and tourists alike. But why is this feast so special? Let’s look the heart of Għajnsielem to find out.

Għajnsielem, which means ‘bubble of salt’ in Maltese, is a village rich in history. The Feast of St Anthony dates back to the 17th century when the villagers decided to honour the saint who is known for his powerful preaching and miracles. The feast was first celebrated in 1623, and since then, it has become an integral part of the village’s identity.

The feast is celebrated with a week-long programme of activities, including religious services, processions, fireworks, and traditional Gozitan food. The highlight of the feast is the statue of St Anthony, which is carried through the streets in a colourful procession. The statue, dressed in richly embroidered robes, is a symbol of the village’s devotion to the saint.

The feast is known for its distinctive red and white colours, which are seen everywhere during the celebrations. The village streets are decorated with red and white banners, and the houses are adorned with red and white lights. The statue of St Anthony is also dressed in red and white robes.

The colours are not just for aesthetic purposes. Red and white are the colours of the Order of St John, which ruled Malta and Gozo for over 200 years. The villagers adopted these colours to honour the Order and to show their loyalty to the Maltese islands.

No Maltese feast would be complete without food, and the Feast of St Anthony is no exception. The streets around the main square, Triq San Ġorġ, are filled with food stalls selling traditional Gozitan dishes like ħobż biż-Żejt (bread with olive oil), ftira (Gozitan pizza), and pastizzi (savoury pastries). The aroma of fresh fish and chips, a local favourite, wafts through the air, making it impossible to resist.

After the religious procession, the village comes alive with music and dancing. The main square is filled with people of all ages, enjoying the festive atmosphere. The night culminates with a spectacular fireworks display, a tradition that dates back to the 19th century.

If you’re planning to attend the Feast of St Anthony, here are a few tips. The procession starts at around 6 pm from the Parish Church of St George, making its way through the main streets of the village. The best spots to watch the procession are around Triq San Ġorġ and Triq l-Indipendenza. For the best views of the fireworks, head to the open spaces around the village, such as the Għajnsielem Football Ground.

The Feast of St Anthony of Padua is more than just a religious celebration. It’s a time for the community to come together, to celebrate their history and culture, and to enjoy each other’s company. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the feast is a unique opportunity to experience the warmth and hospitality of Gozitan village life.

So, if you find yourself in Gozo in early June, don’t miss out on the Feast of St Anthony. It’s a spectacle that will leave you with unforgettable memories of your time in Malta.