Malta marks 62 years of independence on 21 September 2026. On 21 September 1964 the archipelago became a sovereign state, after more than a century and a half of British administration, a new constitution and a referendum in the same year.

It first remained a monarchy in the Commonwealth. The republic was proclaimed in 1974. The two moments are not mixed: Independence Day is 21 September; Republic Day is 13 December.

Other national holidays — Freedom Day, Sette Giugno, Victory Day — are separate markers. The Maltese government lists 21 September 2026 as a national and public holiday.

Ceremonies may take place in Valletta and other localities. Wreath-laying, parades and guest lists are confirmed from institutional programmes, not from habit in earlier years.

The historical record keeps British administration, the 1964 constitution and the 1974 republic on separate lines. Without a statement, this year’s theme is not invented.

For readers, the date is that of sovereignty, not of the whole constitutional story. Protocol details for 2026 are updated if Valletta publishes them.

Image: Valletta skyline / Wikimedia Commons (copyrighted free use). A view of the capital, not the 21 September 2026 ceremony. Cropped to 16:9.

Source consulted: Public Holidays | Government of Malta; Malta | The Commonwealth.