Traffic congestion warning ahead of Mqabba fireworks scheduled on Friday (14 August)

Country: Malta Event Date: 14-Aug-2026 Risk Level: Low Date Time: 2026-08-14T05:12:12Z

Impact Level: Notification

Locations Affected: Kirkop, Qrendi, Mqabba, Malta

Tracking Id: RINTP3876324783

Description:

As per reports, Mqabba’s Fireworks Spectacular is scheduled to take place on Friday (14 August) at 2130 hours local time (1930 hours UTC), featuring the village’s 63-metre Tower of Light combined with around 10,000 fireworks shots, on the eve of the Feast of Santa Marija.

• Reportedly, thousands of spectators are expected to attend, with the event considered one of the highlights of Malta’s summer festa calendar.
• The report suggests neighbouring Qrendi will hold a similar pyro-musical display on the same night, with both villages drawing large crowds simultaneously.

Impact:

• Large crowds converging on Mqabba and Qrendi for the fireworks displays may lead to significant traffic congestion on approach roads, including the Kirkop tunnels, particularly in the hours before and after the show.
• Increased traffic volume near Malta International Airport may lead to delays for travellers heading to or from the airport during the event window.
• Roadside parking and pedestrian crowds in and around the village cores may lead to reduced road capacity and slower emergency vehicle access.

Recommendations:

• It is advised to allow extra travel time when using routes through the Kirkop tunnels on Friday (14 August).
• It is advised for travellers heading to or from Malta International Airport to factor in possible delays or take alternative routes.
• It is advised to monitor updates via Transport Malta at https://www.transport.gov.mt/.

Sources:
https://lovinmalta.com/lifestyle/things-to-do/mqabbas-63-metre-tower-of-light-returns-tomorrow-with-10000-fireworks-shots/
https://rozie.app/malta-fireworks-calendar-2026-your-complete-event-guide/