As the sun sets over the tranquil village of Għajnsielem, a stark contrast emerges. The peaceful streets transform into a vibrant spectacle, illuminated by the warm glow of thousands of candles and the dazzling display of fireworks. This is the Feast of St Anthony of Padua, a celebration that has been lighting up the hearts of locals and visitors alike for centuries.

A Village United

Għajnsielem, a small village nestled in the north of Malta, is known for its tight-knit community. The feast is more than just a religious celebration; it’s a testament to the village’s unity and spirit. Every year, the villagers come together to honour their patron saint, St Anthony of Padua, with a week-long festival that culminates in a grand procession and a breathtaking fireworks display.

“Il-Festa ta’ San Antoun is not just about the religious aspect,” says Mario, a lifelong resident of Għajnsielem. “It’s about bringing the community together, celebrating our heritage, and creating lasting memories.”

A Week of Festivities

The feast kicks off with a series of events, including traditional Maltese games, musical performances, and religious services. The streets are adorned with colourful banners and decorations, creating a festive atmosphere that permeates every corner of the village. The main attraction, however, is the presepe vivente, a live nativity scene that brings the story of Jesus’ birth to life in the heart of Għajnsielem.

On the eve of the feast, the village square transforms into a bustling market, filled with food stalls selling traditional Maltese delicacies like imqaret and qassatat. The air is filled with the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked pastries and the sound of laughter and chatter.

The Grand Procession

The climax of the feast is the grand procession, where a statue of St Anthony is carried through the streets of Għajnsielem. The statue, adorned with flowers and gold, is a symbol of the village’s devotion to its patron saint. The procession is led by the village band, their music echoing through the narrow streets, followed by a sea of villagers and visitors, many carrying candles and singing hymns.

“Seeing the statue of San Antoun being carried through the streets, surrounded by the love and devotion of the villagers, is a sight that never fails to move me,” says Anna, a regular visitor to the feast.“

The procession ends with a mass at the parish church, where the statue is placed in a prominent position, surrounded by flowers and offerings from the villagers.

After the mass, the fireworks display begins, lighting up the night sky with a dazzling spectacle of colours and shapes. The display, set to music, is a breathtaking finale to the week-long celebrations.

Getting Involved

If you’re planning to attend the Feast of St Anthony of Padua in Għajnsielem, here are some practical tips:

• The feast is usually held in June, with the grand procession taking place on the Sunday.
• The best place to watch the procession is along Triq San Anton, the main street leading to the parish church.
• If you want to join the procession, gather at the band club in Triq San Pawl at around 6 pm on the Sunday.
• For the best view of the fireworks, head to the village square or any of the nearby rooftops.

“The Feast of St Anthony of Padua is more than just a religious celebration,” says Mario. “It’s a chance to experience the true spirit of Malta – warm, welcoming, and full of life.“