Drag in Malta: a night at Sirena in Sliema
Drag cabaret, drag bingo and drag karaoke on Triq Windsor: Sirena in Sliema is one of Malta's few dedicated queer venues. What happens each night and how to plan your visit.
Malta is small, and its queer nightlife is too. In Sliema, on Triq Windsor, Sirena is a show bar and gay café built around drag, and one of the island's few dedicated queer venues. Here is what a week looks like there and how to plan a good visit.
Sirena, show bar and gay café
Sirena sits on Triq Windsor in Sliema, a short walk from the seafront. By day it is a café; in the evening the stage takes over. The bar serves classic and signature cocktails and shots, with pies, pastizzi and platters if you want to eat. The venue can also be hired for birthdays and private events.
A week of drag
The programme is built around drag, with a different format almost every night:
- Wednesday, Pop Machine: a pop night that moves through a different decade each week.
- Thursday, Siren Song: drag karaoke, where you can take the microphone.
- Friday, Slush Drag Bingo: bingo hosted by drag queens.
- Saturday, Play Buoy: the drag cabaret, with singing, lip syncs, stand-up and games.
Monthly extras add an alt and emo night, a boozy brunch show, movie nights and pub quizzes. Check the official website, linked on the venue page, before you go: dates and themes change.
Which night to choose?
- First drag show: Saturday's Play Buoy cabaret.
- With friends who like to sing: Thursday's drag karaoke.
- Relaxed and playful: Friday's drag bingo.
- A late breakfast that turns into a party: the monthly boozy brunch show.
Tips and etiquette
- Arrive early on Saturdays; seats near the stage go first.
- Join in or not: drag nights often involve the audience. Sit further back if you would rather watch.
- Tip and cheer: performers live from applause and tips.
- Photos: ask before filming performers or other guests.
- Respect: Sirena is a queer space first; everyone is welcome who respects that.
Getting there
Sliema is on the north-east coast, across the harbour from Valletta. Buses connect it with most of the island, and ferries cross from Valletta. At night, a taxi or ride-hailing app is the simplest way back.
First time at a drag night?
You do not need to know the songs or the codes. Order a drink, find a seat, and let the host lead. Laughing, singing along and clapping is all that is expected. If you are travelling alone, the bar is an easy place to start a conversation.
Keep exploring
Sirena is on the map with its address and directions. Use « Near me » to find it from where you are staying, see the Sliema page, or browse all drag cabarets across Europe if you are planning your next trip.
