Żejt iż-Żejtun

Every October, the town of Żejtun hosts this beloved seasonal celebration honoring its heritage of olive growing and rural life. The festival takes its name from the Maltese term for olives and welcomes visitors free of charge throughout the weekend festivities. Highlights include processions recreating historical moments with traditional performers, folk musicians (għannejja), and vintage carts transporting freshly gathered olives to pressing facilities. Throughout the grounds, you'll find numerous vendors offering regional cuisine, opportunities to sample local olive oils, handmade goods, and traditional Maltese loaves. The weekend also opens several notable buildings and sites for public exploration, including agricultural displays and special access to the interior spaces of St. Catherine's Parish Church, such as its underground burial chambers and upper bell tower. On Sunday morning, the community gathers for a distinctive blessing ceremony in which residents present their domestic and farm animals for spiritual benediction.