Nadur’s St Peter and St Paul Feast: A Night Not to Miss
Nadur’s Streets Come Alive for St Peter and St Paul Feast
As the sun begins to set on a warm June evening, the usually quiet streets of Nadur start to hum with life. The annual Feast of St Peter and St Paul is just hours away, and the small town on Malta’s remote northern tip is gearing up for a night of celebration. But what makes this feast so special, and why does Nadur pull out all the stops?
History and Tradition
Nadur’s feast is one of the oldest in Malta, with roots tracing back to the 17th century. The feast honours the town’s patron saints, St Peter and St Paul, and is a time for the community to come together, give thanks, and celebrate their shared heritage. The feast is a highlight in Nadur’s calendar, drawing locals and tourists alike to its narrow, winding streets.
The feast’s traditions are deeply rooted in Maltese culture. The day begins with a morning mass, followed by a procession through the streets. The statue of St Peter, carried by the town’s strongest men, is paraded through the crowds, accompanied by marching bands and fireworks. The statue of St Paul, carried by the town’s youth, follows close behind.
Food, Fun, and Fireworks
But the feast isn’t just about religion. It’s a time for fun, food, and fireworks. The streets are lined with food stalls selling traditional Maltese snacks like ‘pastizzi’ (pastries filled with ricotta or peas) and ‘imqaret’ (date-filled pastries). There are games for the kids, live music, and dancing in the town square.
As night falls, the focus shifts to the fireworks. Nadur is famous for its firework displays, and the feast is no exception. The sky above the town is lit up with a dazzling display of colours, a spectacular end to a day of celebration.
If you’re planning to attend, here are a few tips. The feast takes place in and around Triq San Pietru (St Peter’s Street) and Triq San Pawl (St Paul’s Street). The procession starts at around 6 pm, and the fireworks begin at around 10 pm. Dress comfortably, wear sensible shoes, and be prepared for crowds. And remember, it’s a time for celebration, so join in, enjoy the food, and have a great time!
