Nadur’s St Peter & St Paul Feast: A Cultural Immersion

Every year, on the 29th of June, the tiny village of Nadur in Gozo transforms into a vibrant celebration of faith, family, and folklore. The Feast of St Peter and St Paul is more than just a religious commemoration; it’s a deep dive into Malta’s rich cultural heritage, a spectacle that’s been unfolding for centuries.

Nadur’s Patron Saints

St Peter and St Paul, the patron saints of Nadur, are celebrated with great fervour. The feast is a testament to the villagers’ devotion, a tradition passed down through generations. The story goes that the feast was first celebrated in 1678, when a statue of St Peter was brought to Nadur from Italy. The statue of St Paul followed in 1722, and since then, the two feasts have been celebrated together.

Preparing for the Feast

The weeks leading up to the feast are a flurry of activity. The local band clubs, the heart of Nadur’s feast celebrations, practice tirelessly. The streets are cleaned and decorated, and the village square is transformed into a bustling market, filled with the aroma of local delicacies like ‘qaghaq tal-ghasel’ and ‘imqaret’.

At the heart of it all is the ‘Il-Karnival’, a traditional Gozitan carnival held a week before the feast. It’s a colourful affair, with elaborate floats, marching bands, and dance groups. The streets of Nadur, particularly Triq San Pietru, come alive with music, laughter, and the joy of community.

The Big Day

On the day of the feast, the village wakes up to the sound of church bells and the rhythmic beating of drums. The statue of St Peter is carried out of the church, followed by St Paul, in a grand procession. The streets are lined with villagers, tourists, and devotees, all eager to catch a glimpse of the statues.

The procession winds its way through the narrow streets of Nadur, stopping at various points for prayers and hymns. The band clubs, dressed in their traditional uniforms, march alongside, filling the air with their lively tunes. The atmosphere is electric, a blend of reverence and festivity.

As the sun sets, the village square comes alive with fireworks, a spectacular display that lights up the night sky. The feast culminates with a grand finale, a breathtaking firework display that leaves the crowd awestruck.

But the celebrations don’t end there. The next day, the feast is repeated, with the statues of St Peter and St Paul visiting the homes of the sick and elderly. It’s a touching tradition, a symbol of the community’s care and compassion.