Island Traditions Meet Festive Cheer at Nova Maldives
Sunday 10th of August 2025
Nova Maldives is inviting guests to celebrate the holidays in true island style with Maldivian Magic – A Festive Fusion, a specially curated festive line-up running from 21 December 2025 to 7 January 2026. Inspired by over 2,500 years of Maldivian heritage, the programme pays tribute to the country’s seafaring history, storytelling traditions, and cultural rituals focused on joy and connection.
The experience offers a balance of adventure, wellness, and culinary discovery. Guests can start their mornings with Ocean Glides with Koamas—a jet ski excursion to spot dolphins in the wild—or snorkel alongside whale sharks and manta rays. For a more peaceful outing, the Private Catamaran Sunset Cruise provides a leisurely sail across turquoise waters.
As the sun sets, the underwater journey continues with night snorkelling, giving guests a chance to witness baby reef sharks, reef fish, and other nocturnal marine life in their natural environment.
Food plays a central role throughout the season. The culinary theme, Taste of the Atolls, spans several unique experiences. At Wink Bar, Elixirs of the Isles is a daily mixology session using local fruits and botanicals. Overwater teppanyaki venue Mizu presents Ocean Umami—a dinner combining Japanese culinary precision with Maldivian flavours. On the beach, FLAMES hosts a Maldivian Fishermen’s Feast, pairing grilled seafood with live island music and bubbles.
Adding a cultural layer is Malaafaiy Keyn, a traditional Maldivian dining experience served on a handmade malaafaiy platter. Guests dine in a specially designed Mauloodh Haruge, enjoying heritage curries, spiced rice, and local side dishes in a setting that blends tradition and modern comfort.
For moments of solitude and calm, the Private Finolhu Sandbank Escape invites guests to a secluded white-sand islet with chilled Prosecco, canapés, and endless ocean views. At EsKape Spa, wellness treatments draw from Maldivian healing practices. Kaashi Naashi Ritual uses coconut oil and shells for a rejuvenating experience, ending with a head massage. Soulful Healing through Dhivehi Beys offers a massage with native herbs, spices, and virgin coconut oil, grounded in ancestral knowledge.
The celebrations begin with the Grand Christmas Tree Lighting under the stars, followed by a Christmas Eve beach party featuring a fire show and a Gala Dinner filled with Maldivian and festive dishes. On Christmas morning, Santa makes an appearance at Wink Beach, welcomed with cocktails and treats.
The season concludes with a vibrant New Year’s Eve celebration, complete with fireworks, DJ sets, and live music. On 1 January, the First Brunch of ’26 offers a slow, flavourful start to the year with live cooking stations and island-inspired cuisine.
“Our festive offerings go beyond seasonal cheer,” says Abdulla Aboobakuru, General Manager at Nova Maldives. “They embody the island’s rich cultural heritage, creating immersive moments of joy, tradition, and meaningful connection.”
Maldivian Magic is more than just a celebration—it's a reflection of Nova’s connection to the sea, culture, and community, brought to life through unique guest experiences.