Two international headliners for the Għaxaq Music Festival 2026
The Għaxaq Music Festival will return this summer with a special edition that forms part of the celebrations of the 400th anniversary of the founding of the Għaxaq Parish. The festival, which has been organised since 1999, has established itself as one of the most important musical events in Malta.
This year’s edition will host two major international artists. On Tuesday 21st July, the Italian group Ricchi e Poveri will be performing as part of their World Tour, while on Friday 24th July, for the first time in Malta, Padre Guilherme, known as “DJ Priest”, will be performing alongside POU – Product of Us. Both evenings will be accompanied by Maltese artists such as Kevin Paul Calleja, JJoy, Alex Grech, Pierre Cordina, Mux and Braynod.
During the launch of the programme, the Minister for Arts, Culture and National Heritage, Malcolm Paul Agius Galea, stated that festivals such as this are testament to how culture is able to unite communities, create opportunities for artists and continue to strengthen Malta’s position as a cultural destination.
“The Għaxaq Music Festival is a clear example of how volunteerism, community and culture can come together to create an international level event. As a Government we believe that investing in culture is an investment in people, in our identity and in the creative economy. This festival not only attracts thousands of people to our country, but also gives Maltese artists a space to share the stage with internationally renowned artists,” said Minister Agius Galea. He also thanked the Għaqda Mużikali Santa Marija ta’ Ħal Għaxaq and all the volunteers who, year after year, with commitment and dedication make this festival possible.
Tourism Minister Jo Etienne Abela said that the 27th edition of the Għaxaq Music Festival continues to confirm the Government’s commitment to assisting in strengthening our country’s cultural and tourist calendar, while continuing to promote Malta as a quality destination on an international level. He said that festivals of this kind not only offer a cultural experience to the local community, but continue to attract tourists to Malta, with direct benefits for the economy and the tourism sector.
“The Government firmly believes in the value of events such as these, which continue to strengthen Malta’s international profile and contribute to a more diverse and sustainable tourism offer. It is also gratifying that this edition will be supporting the NGO Embrace, thus combining culture, tourism and social solidarity. As a Government, we will continue to invest and support initiatives that continue to bring added value to our country and strengthen Malta’s positive reputation abroad,” concluded Minister Abela.
The festival is organised by the Santa Marija Musical Society of Ghaxaq under the patronage of the Ministry for Arts, Culture and National Heritage and the Malta Tourism Authority.
Tickets are available from showshappening.com , while more information can be obtained from the official Għaxaq Music Festival pages.
