In Malta, 19th March marks the celebration of the Feast of St Joseph, known locally as San Ġużepp. This important day is observed as a national public holiday, offering an opportunity for families and communities to come together and honour long-standing religious and cultural traditions.
The feast is particularly associated with the town of Rabat, where celebrations dedicated to Saint Joseph are especially vibrant. Religious processions, church services and community gatherings form an integral part of the day, reflecting the deep-rooted devotion to St Joseph within Maltese culture.
No celebration of San Ġużepp would be complete without its traditional sweets. Among the most beloved are Żeppoli ta’ San Ġużepp, delicious pastries typically made from light choux pastry, filled with rich ricotta cream and topped with candied cherries, chocolate and crushed pistachios. These indulgent treats have become synonymous with the feast and are eagerly enjoyed by locals each year.
Beyond the festivities and culinary traditions, the Feast of St Joseph serves as a moment to celebrate Malta’s rich heritage and the customs that continue to bring communities together.
As this cherished public holiday approaches, it offers a wonderful reminder of the cultural traditions that form an important part of life in Malta.
Check out more information on festivity schedule in Rabat.
