Nadur Carnival Malta 2027

Masks, Mystery And Nadur Madness

Nadur Carnival is one of the most unique and memorable events in Malta and Gozo. It is lively, creative, strange, funny, and often full of surprises, making it different from the more organized Carnival celebrations on the islands.

The event takes place in the village of Nadur in Gozo and attracts locals, Maltese visitors, tourists, photographers, and anyone seeking a bolder Carnival experience. People enjoy its lively street atmosphere, spontaneous costumes, satire, masks, and the village's special energy.

Are you visiting Gozo for Nadur Carnival? Check out more events in Malta during February and enjoy the island’s colorful carnival season.

Event details at a glance

  • Location: Nadur village centre, Gozo
  • Organised Carnival: Preparations are underway for the 2027 edition. Date and programme are awaiting confirmation.
  • Spontaneous Carnival: Expected from Friday 5th to Tuesday 9th February 2027, subject to official confirmation.
  • Times: Awaiting the official 2027 programme.
  • Entry: Traditionally free.

Official Nadur Carnival Links

Table of Contents

What gives Nadur Carnival its wild character

Nadur Carnival is special for its authentic, local feel, setting it apart from most organized events. It’s more than a parade. The real excitement is in the streets, where people arrive in handmade costumes, strange masks, funny clothes, and clever satirical outfits that often surprise visitors.

The village setting adds to the experience. Most of the year, Nadur is a quiet, traditional Gozitan village, but during Carnival it turns into a lively night-time stage. The streets burst with color, noise, humor, and creativity, giving the event a playful spirit that has made it well-known across Malta and Gozo.

Why Nadur Carnival is so famous in Gozo

Nadur Carnival stands out for its spontaneous style. Unlike other carnival events in Malta and Gozo that follow a set programme, Nadur is known for its informal street parties, creative costumes, satire, and surprising moments in the village centre.

That is why many consider it one of Malta’s most unique carnival events. It may seem less polished, but that is part of its charm. People love Nadur Carnival for its energy, personality, humour, and strong local identity, which visitors remember long after the night ends.

What the Carnival night feels like

People enjoy the event for different reasons. Some come for the funny costumes, others to take photos, and some simply want to experience Gozo during Carnival. Later in the evening, it gets more crowded and feels more grown-up. Families with younger children may prefer the separate organised daytime Carnival.

Things to know before heading to Nadur

To make the most of Nadur Carnival, plan ahead. Arriving early gives you more time to get your bearings, find parking, eat, and soak up the atmosphere before the crowds arrive. Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll spend a lot of time walking and standing.

Dress for the evening weather, especially if you come to Gozo in February. Keep your valuables safe, bring only what you need, and plan your return before it gets crowded. If you travel from Malta, factor in the ferry and the trip across Gozo, as they add extra time to your evening.

How to reach Nadur Carnival

🚗 Car: Driving offers flexibility, especially if you stay in Gozo or travel with a group.

🚌 Bus: Public transport can get you to Nadur, but check evening routes before relying on it for your return.

⛴️ Ferry: The ferry is useful if you come from Malta, but you still need transport from Mġarr Harbour to Nadur.

🚕 Taxi: A taxi or ride app can be a good option, especially late in the evening, but demand may be high during Carnival.

🅿️ Parking near the centre can be difficult, so arrive early and expect to walk from nearby streets.

Nearby places to add to your Gozo visit

📍 Nadur Parish Church: A striking village landmark that gives Nadur’s centre its traditional Gozitan character.

📍 San Blas Bay: A small red-sand beach near Nadur, best enjoyed in daylight before the evening crowds arrive.

📍 Ramla Bay: One of Gozo’s most popular beaches, ideal for turning your Carnival visit into a longer day out on Gozo.

📍 Victoria: Gozo’s main town is useful for food, shopping, sightseeing, and a relaxed stop before heading to Nadur.

📍 Mġarr Harbour: A practical point to keep in mind if you are arriving from Malta or returning by ferry.

A good local tip: Avoid treating Nadur Carnival as a rushed visit. Travel in Gozo takes time, especially when many people head to the same area. Arrive with enough breathing space and plan your return before the village gets too busy.

Best places to stay for Carnival in Gozo

If you are heading to the Nadur Carnival while on holiday in Malta, staying in Gozo can make your evening easier and more enjoyable. Victoria is a great choice for transport, food, and sightseeing. You might also consider Nadur, Xagħra, Għajnsielem, Marsalforn, or other nearby coastal villages, depending on what kind of experience you are after. Take a look at the map below to compare your options and choose the place that fits your Gozo Carnival plans.

👉 Browse Gozo accommodation for your event trip

Why this Carnival belongs on your Malta events list

Nadur Carnival is a must-see for its bold, creative, and authentic spirit of Malta and Gozo. Rather than a quiet cultural event or a formal stage show, it fills the streets with costumes, humour, satire, music, crowds, and a lively energy that lingers long after it ends.

Tourists experience Gozo from a fresh perspective, while locals regard it as one of the island’s best-known seasonal celebrations. If you enjoy events with a strong atmosphere and genuine character, Nadur Carnival is a great choice for your Malta trip.

Explore More Events And Festivals

Browse more Malta and Gozo events by category.

Seasonal And Traditional Events
Valentine’s Day Carnival St Patrick’s Day Our Lady Of Sorrows Processions Palm Sunday Processions Good Friday Processions Easter Sunday Halloween Christmas Day New Year’s Eve
International Music Festivals
Isle Of MTV Glitch Festival Earth Garden Festival SummerDaze Defected ABODE On The Rock World Club Dome DLT Sunny Side Festival Somedays Festival
International Artists And Concerts
Calvin Harris Lewis Capaldi Gabriel Iglesias Pitbull Katy Perry Michael Bublé
Wine, Food And Local Festivals
Delicata Wine Festival Farsons Beer Festival Marsovin Summer Wine Festival Valletta Green Festival Strawberry Festival Mgarr, Malta Strawberry Festival Nadur, Gozo Festgħana Żejt Iż-Żejtun Ħamrun Chocolate Festival
Culture, Arts And Music Events
BirguFest Jazz Festival Notte Bianca Valletta Baroque Festival Choir Festival Arts Festival The Cross Music Competition Science In The City Museums By Candlelight Valletta Museums By Candlelight Birgu Mużika Mużika Valletta Guitar Festival ŻiguŻajg Festival Cittadella Arts Festival Three Palaces Festival
Historic, Fairs And Spectacle Events
Valletta Concours International Fireworks Festival Mechanical Ground Fireworks Festival Medieval Mdina Rockestra International Airshow Trade Fair Il-Fiera L-Kbira Mdina Classic Malta Traditional Għarb Infiorata Military Mtarfa
Gozo Events And Festivals
Delicata Classic Wine Festival Gozo Gaulitana: A Festival Of Music Victoria International Arts Festival Nadur Carnival Għarb Infiorata Opera Is Gozo Gozo International Kite And Wind Festival Festival Mediterranea Gozo Traditional, Agricultural & Industrial Exhibition Gozo Film Festival Xagħra Fig Festival Traditions: Wine, Olive Oil And Honey Festival Gozo International Puppet Festival

Nadur Carnival Malta questions answered

When is the Nadur Carnival in Malta 2027?

The spontaneous Nadur Carnival is expected to take place from Friday 5th to Tuesday 9th February 2027, subject to official confirmation. The date of the separately organised Carnival and the full programme will be added once announced.

Where is Nadur Carnival held, and is entry free?

The carnival takes place at Nadur Square, Triq Il-Knisja, Nadur, Gozo. Entry is free.

Is Nadur Carnival the same as the Malta Carnival in Valletta?

No, Nadur Carnival is actually quite different. Valletta Carnival is more organized and centers around parades. In contrast, Nadur Carnival is known for its lively street vibe, satire, masks, and unique costumes.

Is Nadur Carnival suitable for tourists?

The Nadur Carnival is a favorite among tourists who want a more local and unique Carnival experience in Malta and Gozo. It’s a great option for people who enjoy a lively atmosphere, taking photos, exploring street scenes, and experiencing cultural events with personality.

Is Nadur Carnival family-friendly?

Families often enjoy coming earlier in the evening, as it gets very crowded later on. Parents should consider the time, crowd size, and their children’s ages when deciding how long to stay.

Do people wear costumes at Nadur Carnival?

Costumes play a big role in Nadur Carnival. Lots of people wear masks, handmade outfits, funny costumes, or dress up in a satirical way. You do not have to wear a costume, but joining in can make the experience more fun.

Can I visit Nadur Carnival from Malta in one evening?

Yes, you can visit from Malta in one evening, but you need to plan ahead. Allow time for the ferry, travel from the harbour to Nadur, traffic and parking, and your return trip, including ferry queues.

What should I wear to Nadur Carnival?

Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for an outdoor evening in February. If you want to dress up, choose something practical for walking through busy streets.


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Albert and Benjamin Magro, local Malta travel writers

We are Albert and Benjamin Magro, two Malta locals who enjoy exploring the island and sharing practical advice with visitors. Our guides combine local knowledge with first-hand visits to Malta's towns, beaches, attractions and accommodation areas. Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook for more Malta tips, photos and videos.

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