Plan your stay during Birkirkara’s Festa of Saint Helen — one of Malta’s most iconic religious celebrations. Get dates, event details, procession times, band info & more.
Every August, the town of Birkirkara comes alive with color, music, and devotion during the Festa ta’ Santa Liena — the Feast of Saint Helen. Just steps away from Royale Sainte Hélène Boutique Hotel, this celebration is one of Malta’s grandest and most cherished religious festivals. Whether you’re a cultural traveler or a first-time visitor, witnessing the feast is a truly unforgettable experience.
2025 Feast Date: Sunday, August 17th, 2025
The feast typically culminates on the third Sunday of August, though festivities begin up to a week in advance.
What to Expect During the Feast
1. Illuminated Streets & Traditional Decorations
By mid-August, the main roads of Birkirkara — especially around Saint Hélène Basilica — are draped in banners, lights, and statues. Locals prepare days in advance, with community pride shining through every detail.
2. Marches & Band Clubs
The festa includes daily musical marches led by local band clubs such as the St. Helen Band Club (Soċjetà Mużikali Santa Liena). These joyful processions fill the streets with live brass music, cheering crowds, confetti, and flags. The band marches usually begin in the early evening (around 6:00 PM) leading up to festa weekend.
3. Street Food, Fireworks & Festa Spirit
Expect traditional Maltese street food vendors, ice cream carts, and beer stands along the piazzas. Don’t miss the aerial and ground fireworks (known as nar), especially the eve of the feast on Saturday night, often starting around 9:30–10:00 PM and going late into the night.
4. The Grand Procession – Sunday Morning
The spiritual heart of the festa is the solemn procession held on Sunday morning, featuring the majestic statue of Saint Hélène carried through the streets.
Mass at the Basilica: 7:30 AM & 9:00 AM
Procession with the statue: Begins around 8:00 AM
The return to the Basilica often happens around 10:30 AM, accompanied by church bells, band music, and fireworks.
🏨 Best Way to Experience It? Stay Local.
At Royale Sainte Hélène Boutique Hotel, you’re right in the heart of the action.
🎺 Hear the live bands from your window
🕯 Walk to the basilica in minutes
🪟 Enjoy the fireworks from our Penthouse rooftop terrace with jacuzzi
🍷 We’ll even help you book special dinners or local tours during the festa week
