Malta Pride
Malta Pride is a reflection of the country’s progressive LGBTQ+ laws. The festival includes boat parties, drag performances, and an inclusive atmosphere that welcomes both locals and international visitors in a Mediterranean atmosphere. The Pride afterparties take place in picturesque seaside locations. Unlike in many countries, Malta’s government and even progressive religious groups openly support Pride.
Pride Date Malta
The Pride in Malta is one of the last prides in Europe’s taking place in Mid-September of each year.
When is the Malta Pride taking place in 2025?
In 2025, the event is scheduled for Saturday, September 13. This is the main pride event in Valletta.
The island of Gozo has its own pride event, which takes place the week before, on Saturday, September 6.
There is events starting from the week before, with the Opening Press Launch taking place September, 5.
What is the main party at Malta Pride?
There will be Lollipop party, which is a popular LGBTQ+ friendly club night in Malta since 2016. It’s a key part of the island’s queer nightlife scene, featuring pop and house music.
Check out their Instagram page or buy tickets directly from the ticketing site.
It will take place from 10pm to 4am at Liquid club. It’s a collaboration with Kaktus Cafe and it has two floors, playing pop/house and techno.
On Sunday Lollipop will also have a pool party, starting 2pm in the afternoon at the Cabo Terrace.
More Program Highlights
The is a broad program with many events happening from September 5 until September 14. In the following, you can find some more highlights:
Thursday, September 11:
Drag Bingo and Eurovision night in front of Mercury Tower, from 7:00 pm, tickets in pre-sale, but if you don’t get a ticket, you can still join in and watch the show standing.
Friday, September 12:
The Splash Zone Pool party by Femme, a pool party with drag shows, pop beats under the Maltese sun, starting 5:00 pm until midnight.
Pre-Pride Party at Michelangelo Club, starting 10:00 pm.
Den of Sin at Kaktus Malta, starting 10:30 p, line-up Strählen, opening downstairs area (what happens below, stays below).
Saturday, September 13:
Next to the avove mentioned Lollipop After Party, you also have an After Party at at Michelangelo Club, starting 10:00 pm.
Malta Pride Route
In 2025 the rally will start at Triton Fountain and takes the following route: Vjal Ir-Re Dwardu Vii passing the War Memorial -> Triq Girolamo Cassar -> Castille St -> Merchants Street -> turning onto St.George’s Square -> going back up Republic Street, finishing near the Parliament building.
Parade Starting Time
The Parade will start with speeches at 5:00 pm at Triton Fountain.
Once the parade reaches the parliament, you can go to the Pride Village, taking place September 12 and 13 at Triton Square.
Key Facts
When did Malta Pride first take place?
The Pride first took place in 2004. The first march was organized by the Malta LGBTIQ+ Rights Movement (MGRM) and was attended by a small group of around 50 people. The theme for that first march was “Gay Rights? Human Rights!”
How many visitors to Malta Pride?
In 2023 Malta hosted the EuroPride and saw around 40.000 visitors to the event. For 2024 the number is expted to be somewhat lower, since it did not attract the same amount of visitors it could attract during EuroPride.
What is the theme of Malta Pride this year?
Equality from the Heart
Guide to Malta Pride
Malta Pride usually takes place in mid-September, which makes it an unusual but very appealing event on the European pride calendar. While most prides wrap up by August, Malta offers the perfect excuse to extend your season with yet another pride or to plan a September getaway that combines both a sun beach vacation and queer celebration.
And honestly, September is an excellent time to visit Malta. In August, the heat can be close to unbearable, reaching 40°C, but by September it cools down to a more comfortable 30°C. It’s still beach weather, but pleasant enough to explore Malta’s beautiful natural landscapes and cultural treasures.
Why You Should Go
Malta consistently ranks at the very top of ILGA-Europe’s Rainbow Index, which measures LGBTQ+ equality and protections across Europe. The country has progressive laws on same-sex marriage, adoption, and trans rights, and is widely recognized as a global leader in LGBTQ+ human rights. On paper, it’s one of the safest and most inclusive destinations you can choose.
That said, you won’t find a huge number of gay clubs or bars on the island. Instead, LGBTQ+ locals and visitors mix freely in mainstream nightlife, which could be seen as a sign that queer people are welcome everywhere. Whether you prefer dedicated spaces or blending in, you can decide what works for you.
Practical Information for Participating
Meeting point: The parade starts at Triton Fountain, just outside Valletta’s city gate.
Getting there: If you’re staying outside Valletta, the bus is the easiest option, but arrive early. Once the parade begins, it affects traffic and causes bus delays.
Bring your own drinks: Vendors are scarce (I only spotted one stand, with a very long line), so stock up beforehand. Water, something colorful, and maybe a little booze never hurt!
Other essentials: Sunscreen, a fan, and maybe a portable water spray will make your pride day much more comfortable.
Where to Stay
Valletta: Quieter, perfect for culture lovers. Think cobbled streets, cozy restaurants, and historic charm.
St. Julian’s (San Ġiljan): The party hub. This is where you’ll find the only gay club, Michelangelo, plus countless bars and legendary shot bars, where you can order trays of colorful alcohol-juice mixers (sometimes 24 shots for €10!) to kick off your night.
Sliema: A good in-between option with easy connections, seaside promenades, and nightlife nearby.
How long to Stay
Definitely plan to be there for the main weekend (Friday–Sunday) when the parade and big parties happen. If you’re interested in smaller events like book readings, film screenings, or exhibitions, consider coming earlier, as the official program usually starts the Friday before with an opening ceremony.
Guide to Malta's Gay Bars and Nightlife
For a place of this size and despite the high ranking for gay-friendlyness, options for gay venues are limited.
Michelangelo
Michelangelo is Malta’s only dedicated gay club, located in the party hub of St. Julian’s. It’s the main nightlife spot during Malta Pride, often hosting pre- and after-parties with DJs and dancers. Expect a mixed crowd of locals and travelers.
New for 2025: a place called ‘Michelangelo Playground’ is scheduled to open from September 19. It hasn’t been clarified yet whether this is an addition to the current Michelangelo club or whether it means the club is relocating.
Kaktus
Kaktus is a gay-friendly bar and café in Sliema with a relaxed vibe compared to clubbing in St. Julian’s. It’s a cozy spot to grab drinks, meet people, and start your night before heading out. While not exclusively gay, it’s known as a welcoming space within Malta’s limited queer nightlife scene.