In the heart of Gozo, the small town of Għajnsielem is preparing for its annual extravaganza, the Feast of St Anthony of Padua. This year, the celebrations will take place on June 13th, drawing thousands of locals and tourists alike to this picturesque village. But what makes this feast so special, and what can you expect if you find yourself in Għajnsielem this weekend?

The Feast of St Anthony of Padua is one of the most anticipated events in Għajnsielem’s calendar. The feast commemorates the life of St Anthony, known for his powerful preaching and ability to convert sinners. The first recorded feast in Għajnsielem dates back to 1723, making this year’s celebration a significant milestone.

The feast is marked by a series of religious and cultural activities, including processions, fireworks, and traditional Gozitan food. The highlight is the statue of St Anthony, which is carried through the streets of Għajnsielem, accompanied by marching bands and devotees.

In the weeks leading up to the feast, the streets of Għajnsielem undergo a transformation. Decorative banners and lights adorn the houses, while altars and shrines dedicated to St Anthony pop up in doorways and on street corners. The main thoroughfare, Triq San Ġorġ, becomes a vibrant display of faith and community spirit.

On the day of the feast, the streets are filled with a carnival atmosphere. Children dressed in traditional Gozitan costumes dance in the streets, while adults enjoy the food stalls selling local delicacies like ftira, pastizzi, and qassatat. The aroma of roasting pork fills the air, a tantalizing preview of the traditional ‘porcetta’ that will be served later in the day.

The main procession begins in the afternoon, with the statue of St Anthony leaving the parish church, Il-Ħamrun, and making its way through the streets of Għajnsielem. The band clubs of Għajnsielem and Xewkija provide the musical accompaniment, their marching bands filling the air with a rousing rhythm.

As the sun sets, the focus shifts to the fireworks display. Launched from a barge in the sea off Xwejni Bay, the fireworks light up the night sky, reflecting on the calm waters and providing a spectacular finale to the day’s celebrations.

If you’re planning to attend the Feast of St Anthony of Padua in Għajnsielem, here are a few tips. The procession starts at 4 PM, so make sure to arrive early to secure a good spot. If you want to join the procession, you can do so by contacting the parish priest or any of the local band clubs.

Għajnsielem is easily accessible by bus from Victoria, Gozo’s capital. The feast is a great opportunity to explore this charming village and its surroundings. After the feast, why not take a stroll along the coastal road to the nearby Ramla Bay, one of Gozo’s most beautiful beaches?