Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri announced that following the great success of previous editions, the Gozo Food Festival will return to the heart of Xewkija Square on Friday 10th and Saturday 11th July 2026, from 6:00pm onwards. These two evenings will combine the best food from around the world, entertainment and cultural initiatives in a unique Gozitan summer atmosphere.
Minister Clint Camilleri said that “the Gozo Food Festival has become one of the events that spice up the Gozitan summer and continues to showcase the great potential of our island as a quality destination for Maltese and Gozitan visitors and families. This year we are giving a new dimension to the festival by combining gastronomy with entertainment, culture and innovative experiences that offer something for everyone.” He continued by saying that the Ministry for Gozo remains committed to supporting initiatives that enliven our communities, promote local talent and create more opportunities on the island of Gozitan.
The festival will offer over 100 different food options, including traditional Maltese and Gozitan cuisine as well as international specialties from various countries around the world. All of this will be accompanied by a selection of wines, beers and other artisanal drinks, so that visitors can enjoy a complete culinary experience. In addition to the food, the festival offers a varied entertainment program for everyone, with live music from local artists, a dedicated children’s area and an atmosphere that will bring the main square of Xewkija to life. For football enthusiasts, there will be a big screen on which the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup will be broadcast live.
As part of the cultural experience, an immersive spectacle will be staged near the church commemorating the 475th anniversary of the Siege and Invasion of Gozo in 1551, where history will be combined with modern technology to offer a modern visual experience.
Mayor of Xewkija Simona Refalo said that “we are proud that for another year the Gozo Food Festival will be held in Xewkija, and the Council is working on this event as one of the main partners. This is another opportunity for the Xewkija community to benefit from the popularity of this event, while we welcome hundreds of Gozitans, Maltese and tourists this weekend.”
The Gozo Food Festival is being organised in full collaboration between the Ministry for Gozo, the Xewkija Local Council and a number of other partners, with the aim of further strengthening Gozo as a leading destination for cultural and gastronomic events in the summer. In order to facilitate the public’s attendance, Malta Public Transport will operate a regular service between Mġarr and Xewkija during both evenings.
Minister Clint Camilleri concluded by saying that the Food Festival is a clear example of how one can continue to build on traditions while looking at new ideas that enhance the experience of those visiting Gozo.
Photo: MFG
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