The much-loved Valletta Local Food Festival returns with a special edition from Friday 4th to Sunday 6th July 2025, from 7pm until midnight, taking over the Upper Barrakka Gardens for three days of culinary discovery, local produce, and community celebration.
Organised in collaboration between the Valletta Cultural Agency and the Malta Food Agency, this edition promises to be more diverse and flavourful than ever.
During the launch, the Minister for Culture, Lands and Local Government Owen Bonnici said, “The Valletta Local Food Festival is a beautiful celebration of our local identity and talent. For three days, the Upper Barrakka Gardens will become a space where families, visitors and local producers come together to enjoy culture in the heart of Valletta with over 25 local producers.”
“This special edition gives a boost to the creative economy and our communities, and continues to strengthen the connection between culture, food and people. I wish this festival another success that instills the spirit of local value and thus we continue to bring our capital city to life,” concluded Minister Bonnici.
The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Anton Refalo said, “The Government remains committed to preserving and promoting the island’s agricultural and culinary heritage. This festival clearly reflects the investment being made to ensure a sustainable future for farming and local production. We are committed to protect and support our local farmers and producers.”
Jason Micallef, Chairman of the Valletta Cultural Agency, said:
“This special edition of the Valletta Local Food Festival is a true celebration of Malta’s food identity. It honours our farmers and artisans while bringing people together to enjoy the tastes of the past and present in one of Valletta’s most breathtaking public spaces.”
Brian Vella, Chief Executive Office of the Malta Food Agency said: “Collaboration is at the heart of the Malta Food Agency’s mission, and the Valletta Local Food Festival is a perfect example of that. This strategic partnership with the Valletta Cultural Agency brings together food and culture to truly reflect the essence of Malta.”
Food is part of our country’s identity and culture and through this festival, we celebrate the deep ties between our culinary traditions and cultural heritage. We are proud of what this collaboration represents and look forward to welcoming the public to this memorable event.
This year’s festival brings together over 25 local producers, chefs, and food artisans, presenting an abundant array of authentic Maltese food and drink. From fresh and fried ġbejniet, sheep’s milk, cannoli, bigilla, snails, and honey to mazzola, date pies, kirxa, traditional ħobż biż-żejt, jams, and chutneys, every stand offers delectable tastes and plenty of tradition. Also featured are innovative products like bajtra-infused sweets, chocolate-filled cannoli, flavoured salts, and artisanal liqueurs.
A key highlight of this edition is a demonstration stand led by acclaimed Chef Charles Bone, showcasing live cooking by local chefs. Featuring daily recipes with local fresh produce and a spotlight on Maltese fish, these sessions aim to inspire sustainable cooking practices while celebrating time-honoured recipes.
The festival will include participation by Benna, San Niklaw Farm, Koperattiva Maltija tal-Mogħoż u n-Nagħaġ, The Malta Beekeepers’ Association, Lucky Star Bakery, Flavours of Gozo, and many more. Cultural clubs and youth organisations will also serve hearty dishes such as pulled lamb, stuffed rolls, and traditional platters.
In addition to the food offering, the festival presents a vibrant evening entertainment programme featuring Sarah Bonnici and her 6-piece band, Tikka Banda, Klinsmann Trio, and The Dropout DJ Brass Concert with guest appearances by Olivia Lewis, Mike Spiteri, Neville Refalo, and Ritienne.
The Valletta Local Food Festival 2025 is free and open to all, offering an unmissable opportunity to experience the richness of Maltese food culture.
For more details, visit the Valletta Cultural Agency website and Facebook page.
