Nadur’s St Peter and St Paul Feast: A Maltese Village Party
Nadur’s Streets Come Alive for St Peter and St Paul Feast
As the sun sets over the picturesque village of Nadur, a buzz of anticipation fills the air. The scent of grilled food wafts through the narrow streets, and the hum of chatter grows louder. It’s the eve of the Feast of St Peter and St Paul, and Nadur is ready to party.
History and Tradition
The feast, held annually on June 29th, celebrates the patron saints of the parish. The tradition dates back to 1678 when a statue of St. Peter was brought to Nadur from Gozo. Since then, the villagers have been honouring the saints with a grand feast that combines religious devotion with a good dose of Maltese festivity.
Today, the feast is a highlight on Nadur’s calendar, attracting thousands of locals and tourists alike. It’s a time for families to reunite, for neighbours to catch up, and for everyone to enjoy the unique atmosphere that only a Maltese village feast can offer.
What to Expect
At the heart of the feast is the religious procession. The statue of St. Peter, adorned with golden robes and jewels, is carried through the streets by the village’s strongest men. The procession is accompanied by the village band, their music echoing off the stone walls of the narrow streets. Behind them, a sea of people carrying candles and singing hymns follows.
But the feast is not just about religion. It’s also about food, fun, and fireworks. Street stalls selling everything from pastizzi to candy floss line the streets. Children’s games and rides add to the carnival atmosphere. And as the night sky darkens, a spectacular fireworks display lights up the village, a breathtaking sight that can be seen from the nearby Ta’ Penny Bay.
For those who want to join in the celebrations, the best place to start is at the main square, Pjazza San Pietru. From there, you can follow the procession as it winds its way through the village, or simply soak up the atmosphere in one of the many bars and cafes that spill out onto the streets.
So, if you’re in Malta this June, why not join the party in Nadur? It’s not just a feast, it’s a celebration of community, of history, and of what makes Malta so special.
