Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1542124
DECEMBER 20 @ 08:00 - 23:55 Tiżjin Tal-Milied Triq L-Imġarr Triq L-Imġarr, Xewkija, Gozo, Malta Celebrate the season at with a spectac- ular Christmas light display. A towering installation draped in cascading lights sets the scene for a magical experience, capturing the true spirit of the holidays. This event brings festive cheer to both locals and visitors. With brilliant decora- tions, radiant displays, and a strong sense of community, Xewkija is transformed into a glow- ing winter wonderland – a must-visit during Christmas in Gozo. DECEMBER 20 @ 08:30 - 20:00 The Maltese Cinderella And Her Sisters Xewkija Windmill 8 Triq Il-Mitħna, Xewkija, Gozo, Malta An exhibition by Ve- ronica Veen delves into Il-Germudija, a Gozitan retelling of the timeless Cinderella narrative, rooted in the rich oral traditions of the Maltese Islands. First recorded in 1992 from Marija of Xewkija—celebrated as Malta's last professional storyteller—the tale embodies the fading echoes of an island's spoken heritage. Through Marija's voice, fragments of myth, memory, and everyday life intertwine, revealing how folklore once served as both entertainment and moral compass within close-knit Gozitan communities. Veen's exhibition reinterprets this rare documentation through a contemporary lens, blending sound, text, and visual form to evoke the rhythm and intimacy of oral storytelling. It not only pays tribute to Marija's enduring legacy but also invites reflection on the transformation of story- telling in a rapidly changing cultural land- scape—where voices once shared around the hearth now seek resonance in new artistic media. The Maltese Cinderella and the Women's Storytelling Tra- dition was well received and was awarded a grant by the Malta Book Fund in 2017. DECEMBER 20 @ 09:00 - 12:15 Mario Abela Art Exhibition art..e Gallery Library Street, Victoria, Gozo, Malta Within the confines of the body, storms and whispers coexist. Each heartbeat echoes galaxies, and each tremor holds the weight of exist- ence. Fragility becomes a language through which the world is felt, not seen. Here, heaven and hell are not far away. They pulse inside us, fragile and luminous, shap- ing every moment of our lived experience. DECEMBER 20 @ 09:00 - 17:00 Saints & Trees Citadel Cultural Centre Triq il-Foss, Victoria, Gozo, Malta In Saints & Trees, artist Miriam Sorrell explores the profound connection between the sacred and the natural world. Her evocative portraits of saints are paired with deeply expressive tree paintings — each work a reflection on resilience, reverence, and renewal. The exhibition celebrates both spiritual heritage and environmental consciousness, inviting viewers to reflect on the parallels between sanctity and nature — faith and forest, devotion and endurance. Known internationally as the creator of Mouthwatering Vegan and for her emotive iconography, Miriam Sorrell now presents a body of work that bridges her artistic and spiritual journeys. Saints & Trees is an inti- mate encounter with beauty, compassion, and the living spirit of the earth. DECEMBER 21 @ 09:00 - 17:00 Philatelic Noel Il-Ħaġar Gozo Museum Triq il-Karita`, Victoria, Gozo, Malta The Gozo Philatelic Society is presenting a special exhibition of postcards and other philatelic items inspired by the Christmas season. The display features a fascinating selection of thematic cards, stamps, and collectibles that capture the spirit of Christ- mas through art, culture, and tradition. Visitors can admire beauti- fully designed festive issues from different countries, rare commemorative editions, and creative thematic collections prepared by local and international enthu- siasts. This exhibition not only celebrates the joy of the season but also highlights the timeless charm of philately as a form of art and storytelling. DECEMBER 21 @ 10:00 - 12:00 Is-Seħer Tal-Presepju St. Joseph Band Club Triq J. F. De Chambrai,, Għajnsielem, Gozo, Malta This enchanting exhibition showcases a stunning collection of artistic cribs and dioramas, each one uniquely handcrafted by participants from the various practical art and craft courses organised by the Association throughout the year. The displays highlight the creativity, craftsmanship, and dedication of the participants, who have transformed simple materials into miniature works of art that capture the spirit of tradition, imagination, and storytelling. Visitors are invited to ex- plore the intricate details, innovative techniques, and diverse interpreta- tions presented in each piece—ranging from classic nativity scenes to contemporary dioramic expressions inspired by culture, nature, and daily life. Join us in celebrating this inspiring blend of artis- tic skill, community learning, and festive creativity. DECEMBER 21 @ 10:00 - 12:00 Presepju Għawdxi B'Differenza Teatru Astra Triq ir-Repubblika, Victoria, Gozo, Malta Join us and witness a unique crib with a difference. This crib incorporates not only traditional figurines but also original figures that portray popular personalities, mostly from Victoria. The three wise men are represented by Pope Francis, Cardi- nal Mario Grech & Archbishop Charles Scicluna. What's happening in Gozo Did you know? Ta' Sannat lies in the south of the island of Gozo. The name is probably derived from that of an Arabic-Greek family that moved to Gozo from Sicily. Ta' Sannat is best known for the Ta' Cenc plateau on the edge of the village and its spectacular Ta' Cenc cliffs, the highest cliffs in Gozo. The plateau is typical Maltese garigue rich in flora and fuana. It is also the site of a number of prehistoric remains, including sparse remnants of L-Imramma Temple and three dolmens (made up of, a roughly shaped horizontal limestone slab supported on three sides by blocks of stone standing on end). The plateau overlooks the Hanżira valley, a natural gorge with steep rocky sides separating Ta' Sannat from the village of ix-Xewkija, of which there are excellent views. 2 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 19 DECEMBER 2025 EVENTS