Public holiday in Malta
Republic Day in Malta
Sunday, December 13, 2026
Nationwide public holiday
Republic Day is a nationwide public holiday in Malta on 13 December. It marks the anniversary of Malta’s 1974 transition to a republic.
About Republic Day in Malta
In Malta, Republic Day is a national public holiday and one of the country’s key civic anniversaries. It marks the day Malta became a republic, ending the constitutional monarchy under the British crown. The holiday falls in the same period as other major December observances in Malta, but it has a distinct secular and constitutional meaning. It is relevant across the whole country, with official recognition as a day off work for many people and a focus on national remembrance rather than private celebration.
History
Malta became a republic on 13 December 1974, following constitutional changes that replaced the monarchy with a republican head of state. The date is also significant because it had long been associated with major moments in Maltese history, including the end of British colonial rule in the earlier 20th century.
Traditions
Public ceremonies and the display of the Maltese flag are common ways the day is marked. The holiday is also associated with formal remembrance of Malta’s republican system and national identity.
How Republic Day is celebrated in Malta
The day is usually marked by official events and a quieter public atmosphere than festive holidays. In Malta, some people attend commemorations or follow coverage of state ceremonies, while families may use the public holiday for time at home or outings.
Interesting facts
13 December is also the feast of Saint Lucy, so the date combines a civic holiday with an important religious observance in Malta.
Dates in published calendars
| Year | Holiday date | Observed date | Scope |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 13 Dec 2026 | — | Nationwide |
Import sources
- Generic ICS feed
An import is not an independent verification.