Malta’s Freedom Day: March 31
Freedom Day is a public holiday in Malta.
Every year on the 31st of March, the people of Malta celebrate the anniversary withdrawal of British troops from the country on March 31, 1979. Freedom Day is locally known in Malta as Jum il-Ħelsien.
History of Malta’s Freedom Day
Malta became a British Colony by virtue of the Treaty of Paris in 1814. From that year, British ruled the archipelago until the agreement expired on 1979. As part of this agreement, the British withdraw their military and navy from the country and closed their bases on April 1, 1979.
Malta’s Freedom Day: Traditions, Customs and Activities
Celebrations are held at Floriana which is located just the near the War Memorial to commemorate this important event in Malta’s history.
The most popular activity held during Freedom Day in Malta is a boat race locally known as regatta. Regatta is a basically a water race manually powered by those who are taking part in the event. However, a separate race using motorboats are also held and is categorically referred to as regatta.
Regatta activities are usually held at Grand Harbour and participated both by the locals and some foreigners unless otherwise prohibited by the organizers. Regatta is a sport where most Maltese citizens compete with the ultimate prize for the much coveted prize called Regatta Shield.
The people of Malta spend this day to visit the War Memorial and a monument located on Birgu waterfront (Vittoriosa) reminding all its citizens of Malta’s rich history.
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