Nadur’s St Peter and St Paul Feast: A Night of Tradition and Celebration

Nadur’s Streets Come Alive for St Peter and St Paul Feast

As the sun begins to set on the eve of June 29th, 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 in Malta’s northern region is gearing up for a night of celebration. But what makes this feast so special, and why does Nadur go all out for these two apostles?

History and Tradition

Nadur’s devotion to St Peter and St Paul dates back to the 17th century when the town’s parish church was dedicated to these two apostles. The feast, however, took on a more significant role in the 19th century when the town’s band club, Il-Banda L-Kbira, was established in 1868. Since then, the feast has been a showcase of Nadur’s musical talents, with the band club leading the procession through the town’s narrow streets.

Today, the feast is a blend of tradition and modernity. The main attraction is still the statue of St Peter and St Paul, carried through the streets by the kappella (the group carrying the statue), accompanied by the band club’s music. But the feast also includes fireworks, food stalls, and a funfair, drawing thousands of visitors to this otherwise peaceful town.

What to Expect: A Guide for First-Timers

If you’re planning to join the festivities, here’s what you can expect:

• Procession Timings: The procession usually starts around 7 PM, with the statue of St Peter and St Paul making its way from the parish church to the town square and back.
• Fireworks: Don’t miss the spectacular fireworks display, usually held after the procession. The best view is from the main square or the surrounding streets.
• Food and Drinks: No Maltese feast is complete without food and drinks. Expect stalls selling local delicacies like pastizzi, ftira, and imqaret, as well as beer, wine, and traditional cisk.
• Dress Code: It’s a street party, so dress comfortably and be prepared for crowds. Remember to bring a jacket, as it can get chilly in the evening.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not join the kappella? It’s a great way to experience the feast from a unique perspective. Just be prepared for some heavy lifting!

: What’s Next for Nadur’s Feasts?

Nadur’s feasts are a testament to the town’s strong sense of community and tradition. But as Malta continues to evolve, so do its feasts. The Nadur Local Council is now exploring ways to make the feast more inclusive and eco-friendly, from encouraging more participation from the town’s youth to reducing plastic waste. It’s a balancing act, but one that Nadur is eager to take on.

As one Nadur resident put it, “The feast is about more than just a night of celebration. It’s about our history, our community, and our future. And we’re excited to see where that takes us.”