The Maltese Islands Events Calendar Highlights 2012

Transcription

1 The Maltese Islands Events Calendar Highlights 202

2 So much to do in Malta & Gozo! Malta boasts of an events calendar replete with an eclectic blend of local and international entertainment, exhibitions, festivals and feasts. hatever your particular area of interest may be, you are sure to find activities which will appeal to you. Choose from performances by international contemporary music stars, classical music concerts and jazz festivals, amongst many others. Malta s vibrant performing arts scene also offers a surprisingly diverse repertoire of theatre, opera, and dance. Moreover, the Maltese islands play host to an exciting array of international sporting events. If you are looking for an authentic Maltese experience, then look out for traditional events such as our village festas, Carnival and Holy eek celebrations. The Maltese are amongst the warmest people you will find in the Mediterranean. ith our desire to enjoy life, we will be more than happy to have you share in our fun and joy! For more information please visit our website: TBC: To be confirmed. Precise details of dates, venues or artists etc still to be confirmed at the time of going to print.

3 The President s Concert for the New Year 08/0/202 Republic Hall, Mediterranean Conference Centre Cultural Night in Gudja 07/0/202 Gudja Citrus Festival 08/0/202 All around Lija Lija is renowned for the cultivation of citrus fruit and this event celebrates the tradition through the sale of oranges, lemons, limes and their related by-products. Performances by local artistes and the village band club adds to the festive atmosphere. Traditional Feast of Saint Anthony the Abbot 2 5/0/202 Xagħra, Gozo Alice In onderland /0/202 Manoel Theatre, alletta Maleth will be presenting the spectacular musical Alice, which is based on the Lewis Carrol character Alice in onderland. The show is intended, to a great extent, for family viewing but can be most entertaining to young and old alike. enue ate ebsite Picture Reference JANUARY 202 undee Photographics

4 Malta Song for Europe 03 & 04/02/202 MFCC, (Malta Fairs & Conventions Centre), Ta Qali Feast of St Paul 0/02/202 St. Paul s Parish, alletta and Munxar, Gozo The first of the year s major feasts is celebrated in the parish church of St. Paul, Shipwrecked in alletta and throughout the streets of Malta s capital city. The feast commemorates the shipwreck of St Paul on the Maltese Islands, an event which took place in 60 A and which is recorded in the Acts of the Apostles. The feast is also a national public holiday. Yes, Prime Minister 0-2 & 7-9/02/202 Manoel Theatre, alletta Mellow rama presents a stage production of the popular sitcom Yes, Prime Minister!. Great institutions have a way of riding punches and bouncing back unscathed. ill it prove to be so for Jim Hacker and his team of close advisers? Plastic reams 4/02-04/03/202 Lily Agius Gallery, Sliema Her youthful play of colour does not cease to exist in any of her art, softening what could be strong and menacing overtones. This is essentially her aim: to create a visually pleasing image. Nature verses the man-made - sharp nails are painted yellow; the dark sky attempts to veil the brightly coloured houses on the beach. Carnival in Malta and Gozo 2 7-2/02/202 arious localities February brings with it carnival week, which takes on a traditional flavour, including extravagantly-coloured floats perched on lorries, children in fancy costumes as well as Malta s main nightlife centre, Paceville, welcoming late night carnival revellers to its clubs and bars. The heart of the action over the five days are alletta & Floriana, though various towns and villages across the Island have their own festivities. Carnival in Nadur, Gozo, takes on a particularly comic and macabre tone with its spontaneous night-time carnival. Traditional carnival sweets are a firm favourite, and the love of good food prevails. Carnival week is a time to let your hair down and go with the flow ideal for those who enjoy a good party. (Major events in alletta, Floriana and Nadur, Gozo) enue ate ebsite Picture Reference FEBRUARY

5 2 Oliver Twist 23&24/02/202 Manoel Theatre, alletta The Manoel Theatre and the American rama Group Europe (AGE) is honouring of the 200th Anniversary of the birth of Charles ickens by staging Oliver Twist in alletta. Oliver Twist is the TNT Theatre-Britain adaptation of one ickens most famous novels. Colores el Tango /02/202 Manoel Theatre, alletta The Beltango Quinteto from Belgrade Serbia, is the first authentic tango orchestra from the Balkans and one of the most popular tango orchestras in Europe. Colores del Tango is full of passion, emotion and artistic beauty. The performance fuses the passionate steps of the Argentinian tango with the sounds of an authentic 5-piece tango ensemble, consisting of accordion, piano/vocal, violin, electric guitar, and double bass. The ignacourt Tower Festival 4 26/02/202 St Paul s Bay Ceremonial re-enactment that recounts the erecting of the ignacourt Tower in 60. enue ate ebsite Picture Reference

6 Sunglasses at Night 03/03/202 Monte Kristo Estates, l/o Siggiewi elcome Spring Festival 04/03/202 St Paul s Bay Puerto Flamenco in Malta /03/202 Manoel Theatre, alletta Puerto Flamenco is a spectacular, cutting-edge electric flamenco company from Sevilla, Spain. Puerto Flamenco will finally be performing in Malta at the Manoel Theatre and will be delivering a fantastic evening of Iberian dance. Opera il Trovatore by Giuseppe erdi 5-8/03/202 Manoel Theatre, alletta Spring Equinox 20/03/202 Mnajdra Temples, Qrendi Experience the spring equinox from the ancient and mystical Mnajdra Temples. A night of Ethnic Music 2/03/202 Manoel Theatre, alletta MARCH 202 enue ate ebsite Picture Reference Play Festival 24/03/202 Fleur de Lys Animae Gospel Choir in Concert &25/03/202 MCC Mediterranean Conference Centre, alletta Following the much acclaimed 2009 concerts, Animae Gospel Choir in Concert 2 promises to be another successful and sought after musical event which brings together the finest performers from around the Maltese Islands. Milk Festival 25/03/202 Għargħur The rural village of Għargħur celebrates the universality of milk and how this staple product developed through the ages into forms and byproducts we are accustomed to nowadays. The festival also offers the possibility to learn about milk production and how various dairy products are manufactured. Malta Cycling Tour 28/03-0/04/202 Around the Maltese Islands Jum il-ħelsien Freedom ay 3 3/03/202 The Grand Harbour alletta & Birgu Freedom ay (Jum il-ħelsien) is one of Malta s public holidays and commemorates the closure of the last military base in Malta in 979. Apart from the state ceremonies held in alletta and Birgu wharf, Freedom ay is also renowned for the afternoon regatta held in the waters of the majestic Grand Harbour. Food and drink stalls line the harbour adding to the celebratory feel created by locals and tourists alike. enue ate ebsite Picture Reference

7 Holy eek And Easter /04/202 Around Malta and Gozo On Good Friday an air of solemnity can be felt all over the Islands as church-interiors are draped in black or purple and their bells are kept silent. On the evening of Good Friday some 8 parishes organise a procession with life-size statues depicting the Passion of the Christ. On Easter Sunday the mood change to a happier and festive one as people attend the various Easter processions. By Sunday the churches undergo a radical transformation, with the sombre drapes removed and bells ringing joyously. Malta and Gozo also marks Lent, Good Friday and Easter by seasonal food specialities only available in this period of the year, as well as through the abstinence of certain food. In fact the Maltese traditionally abstain from eating sweets and sometimes meat during Lent, especially on Good Friday. No visit to Malta at Easter would be complete without attending one or more of these celebrations. 3 Medieval Mdina 4-5/04/202 Mdina The Medieval Mdina Pageantry and Flower Festival transport the city and its visitors back in time, whilst enhancing its beauty by means of flowers and music. Mdina s various museums, historic palaces and churches are open throughout the festival for everyone to explore. The presence of flowers everywhere brings a tangible feeling of a vibrant spring. Festa tal-festi 202 4/04/202 Fleur-de-Lys enue ate ebsite Picture Reference 2 3 APRIL

8 Commemoration of the Award of the George Cross 2 5/04/202 St George s Square, alletta In 942 the Island Fortress of Malta was awarded the George Cross medal for the bravery and tenacity of its people. This event commemorates the awarding of the medal, with a military re-enactment and a vivid narration of the events leading to this honour being bestowed upon the whole nation. Strawberry Fair 5/04/202 Mġarr Throughout this event, a breathtaking amount of fresh strawberries are sold. A constant supply of freshly picked strawberries are ferried constantly to the main square of Mġarr throughout the day. Countless other products made with strawberries, ranging from delicious gateaux and cakes, to smoothies, milk-shakes, ice-cream waffles, pancakes, strawberry jams and also strawberry wine are available at this popular event. Open Air Fruit Festival 5/04/202 Attard and Balzan All activities will be held around the village cores. There will be stalls selling locally made cakes, fruit and vegetables and delicacies made from fruit and vegetables. There will be an exhibition of landscapes, still-life paintings and crafts made from recycled material, information stands on recycling, how to save water and energy and love for animals. 2 3 enue ate ebsite Picture Reference Sixth Malta Mechanized Ground Fireworks Festival 7-22/04/202 Granaries Floriana Around ten different fireworks companies compete at the Floriana Granaries for the best mechanised Catherine wheel fireworks. Thousands of pyrotechnic enthusiasts flock to watch this event each year. Ilwien ir-rebbiegħa (Colours of Spring) 20-22/04/202 Żebbuġ (Gozo) An event for all the family, including fireworks, the traditional blessing of various animals and a horse show amongst other things. Qormi Spring Fest 2-22/04/202 Qormi The Springfest is an event which brings together a large number of farmers, street hawkers and national associations connected with animal husbandry. The outcome is a veritable milieu of stalls displaying and selling agricultural produce. Seħer Il-Punent /04/202 Għarb Gozo arious activities are held during the Seħer il-punent Festival, promoting the locality of Għarb, its culture, history, traditions and also sport. uring the festival, arts and crafts exhibitions are held with some of the works created by local artists in situ, further highlighting the artistic skills required. Typical Gozitan produce also features prominently in this event and one may take the opportunity to taste Gozitan cheese, local wine and other delicacies. Tal-Qiegħa folk group, the locality s folk group participates and also organises a traditional meal. Gudja Lejl Specjali Kulturali u Artistiku ghal kulhadd 28/04/202 Gudja Spring Flower and Music 29/04/202 Naxxar enue ate ebsite Picture Reference 4 5

9 Malta International Fireworks Festival Special Edition 23/04/-0/05/202 Main event in the Grand Harbour Area, alletta Held inside the Grand Harbour Area as well as in other locations. The Malta International Fireworks Festival (MIFF) will be held once again in and around Malta s majestic Grand Harbour, definitely the perfect setting for this event. Both local and foreign pyrotechnic companies will be participating in a competition that will confirm the best fireworks display world-wide. Following previous editions, the MIFF is now recognised as one of the main events in Europe s pyrotechnic calendar. This year, the MIFF will be spread over a whole week of events. The grand finale display will be held on May and will be presented by world renowned Parente Fireworks Company of Italy on the st of May. 6 7

10 Labour ay - National public holiday 0/05/202 arious localities People Past and present 04 & 05/05/202 Bormla NightFest at Ħaż-Żebbug 05/05/202 Żebbuġ, Malta Żebbuġ is one of Malta s most historic towns, with a beautiful old village core. The medieval market will offer various re-enactments related to the town s heritage, and stalls offering traditional food and crafts. Heritage and cultural diversity festival 05/05/202 Pembroke Malta Pop Star Talent Special 05/05/202 Birkirkara Traditional Maltese edding 2 2/05/202 Bubaqra limits of Żurrieq eddings in the Maltese Islands have always been much celebrated affairs. This re-enactment of a traditional Maltese wedding as it used to be organised in the time of the Knights of Saint John, focuses on the nuptial costumes of the period and the traditions involved in winning a bride and taking her to the altar. Lejla Fil-Belt Hompesch: A Festival of Arts, History and Culture 2/05/202 Żabbar A family-oriented event centred on the love of food and entertainment whilst commemorating Żabbar s long history. Ħad-ingli - Ħidma Agrarja u Tradizzjonijiet, wirja ta xogħol agrarju flimkien ma tradizzjonijiet lokali u nazzjonali 2-3/05/202 ingli An open air festival focusing on the agricultural and cultural heritage of this unspoilt typical Maltese village. Ħal-Luqa, Niesha u Ġrajjietha 5-20/05/202 Ħal Luqa A commemoration of the important events in the village of Luqa from Medieval times to post orld ar II. In addition, the prominent people of Luqa who emerged over the years will be celebrated and, as is typical of such events, entertainment, exhibitions and food stalls will be available. MAY 202 enue ate ebsite Picture Reference Lejlet Lapsi /05/202 ictoria, Rabat Gozo The capital city of Gozo, comes alive with a wide variety of performances as well as entertainment and exhibitions. Re-enactments and street performances feature prominently in the narrow winding streets of the city, with concerts and recitals taking place in churches, chapels and other venues around the town centre. 2 3 Spring Beauty 9/05/202 Marsalforn, Gozo Eku mill-munxar Yesterday amd tomorrow -A traditional music festival 9/05/202 Munxar, Gozo enue ate ebsite Picture Reference 8 9

11 Festa Lapsi 9-20/05/202 Xgħajra 2 Spring Rikottafest 20/05/202 Ħal Kirkop Maltese cottage cheese is a strong favourite in culinary traditions. This rural event offers the opportunity to learn about the manufacturing of, and savour a variety of pies and sweets using this soft succulent cheese. Potato Festival 27/05/202 Qrendi The rural village of Qrendi, celebrates on ot the staple products grown by the Qrendi farmers for hundreds of years - The potato with its myriad uses and applications. 2 Military and Adventure Mtarfa 27/05/202 Mtarfa Mtarfa has a very strong military history and was home to a military hospital, cemetery and soldiers quarters, due to its strategic location close to the Ta Qali airstrip in II. Exhibitions in the former military hospital and barracks, wartime vehicle exhibitions and displays of various military related artefacts commemorate this bygone era. enue ate ebsite Picture Reference 20 2

12 Maltese Traditional Religious Feasts June September 202 arious localities Malta s main religious denomination is Roman Catholic, and hence religious celebrations are a core part of the Maltese events calendar. The months of June, July, August and September are full to bursting with parishes celebrating their respective patron saints. This is the time of year we fondly call the festa season. Every town and village celebrates in a similar manner, with both indoor religious functions and outdoor festivities. The latter are the more secular aspect of the feasts, with ground and air firework displays, band marches and revelry. Churches are decked out in the parishes finest: drapes, silver and all sorts of ornamentation dazzle the eye during the village festa. Processions with the patron saint statue meander through village streets decorated with lights and beautiful banners pavaljuni, accompanied by bands and devotees. Locals make sure that their homes are in best possible shape for this special occasion, as oftentimes the village festa brings guests and extended family to their doors. No summer in Malta is complete without a visit to one of these colourful, exuberant and yet holy celebrations. Notte Scarlatta 02-03/06/202 Sannat, Gozo The picturesque village of Sannat will once again be the venue for Notte Scarlatta, boasting war-like re-enactments, culinary displays and an interesting II vehicle exhibition Fire and ater isplay 02/06/202 Tal-Pietà ictoria International Arts Festival 06/06/-09/07/202 ictoria, Rabat Gozo The ictoria International Arts Festival held in Gozo s capital, features artistes from the Maltese Islands as well as from all over Europe. enues include St George s Basilica and its annexes as well as St. George s Square and Independence Square. All performances are free of charge. San Giljan Il-Festa ta Lapsi 06/06/202 San Giljan JUNE 202 enue ate ebsite Picture Reference 22 23

13 Għanafest - Malta Mediterranean Folk Music Festival 08-0/06/202 Argotti, Floriana This now well-established roots music festival focuses on the variations of the traditional Maltese għana music, as well as showcasing the talents of various other traditional music groups from around the Mediterranean. Siġġiewi Annual Agrarian Show, here the past meets the present 9-0/06/202 Siġġiewi Surrounded by some of Malta s lushest countryside and valleys, Siġġiewi has a long agrarian tradition and the event celebrates this with food, exhibitions and displays of agrarian fare, amongst others. Burmarrad Farmers Festival 5-6/06/202 Burmarrad, limits of St Paul s Bay Burmarrad square will be transformed into a traditional market place with various stands offering local produce such as fruit and vegetables, plants, Maltese cheeselets, honey, olives and tomatoes. An agrarian exhibition of agricultural machinery and exhibits related to agricultural products and trade will be set up. 2 Fiori d Argento 5-7/06/202 Xewkija, Gozo Fontana Fireworks Festival 6/06/202 Fontana, Gozo Xlendi Open Air Film Screening 20/06/202 Xlendi, Gozo enue ate ebsite Picture Reference Xirka Rock /06/202 Buskett Forrest The Xirka Rock live show will be held again this year on June 29 at a venue still to be confirmed. Malta s best rock singers and musicians have put together a live band to launch Xirka Rock. The band, surprisingly called Xirka Rock Band, is made up of members of Fakawi, KOI, Airport Impressions, Fire, Red Electrick, Forsaken and more. They will be playing the great rock classics we all know. Be ready to rock with Malta s best rock artists. Fesitval Ħidmet Missierijietna, Annual agrarian showcase and food village L-Imnarja: Summer Folk Festival 22/06/202 Mġarr 29/06/202 Rabat/Mdina/Buskett Gardens The origins of this festival date back to before the arrival of the Knights of St John in 530. It acquired its name from the bonfires that used to light Tas-Sliema Past and Present Arts Festival up the festivities in Mdina and Rabat. Today, the feast is marked by various events. On the eve, families and friends gather at Buskett Gardens, 23-24/06/202 Sliema Malta s largest woodland area, for a picnic which normally carries on into the night. The traditional rabbit dish and wine are at the top of the day s menu, accompanied by the singing and music of local folk bands. The morning after, the day of the feast proper, the celebrations continue with an Ice-cream Festival agricultural show, followed by bareback horse and donkey races at Saqqajja Hill, just below Mdina. 30/06/202 Baħar iċ-ċagħaq 24 25

14 Isle of MT Malta Special 30/06/202 Floriana and other venues The Isle of MT Concert is the apex of a week-long festival of live music. The annual Isle of MT music event in Malta is an MT Networks International (MTNI) production. A world class line up of artistes will play in a free live concert on the Granaries in Floriana in front of a crowd which annually tops the 50,000 mark. Once again this promises to be one of the summer s must-see musical events. The Isle of MT Malta is unique in offering young people across Europe an exclusive opportunity to experience some of the world s best new and established artistes here in Malta, and for free. This event has become an important annual destination for music lovers. Previous attractions included Lady Gaga, Black Eyed Peas, N*E*R*, One Republic, Maroon 5, Akon, Enrique Iglesias, Kid Rock, avid Guetta, Metro Station, Snoop ogg, and LMFAO amongst others

15 Malta Arts Festival 0-8/07/202 alletta & Floriana The Malta Arts Festival comprises a wide variety of art forms, including theatre, dance, music and painting. Performances are staged in various venues in alletta and Floriana. Other venues in the capital include the Mediterranean Conference Centre, the MITP Theatre and the St. James Cavalier Centre for Creativity. Pearls of the Romantic 08/07/202 Manoel Theatre, alletta Final Concert of iolin and Friends International Music Festival and Prize Giving Ceremony of Malta International Music Competition Open Air Film Screening /07/202 Xlendi, Gozo Marsovin ine Festival enue ate ebsite Picture Reference 2-5/07/202 Hastings Garden, alletta The Malta International Jazz Festival 5 Local wine producers Marsovin will be holding their annual wine festival as part of the Malta Arts Festival in alletta. The event is usually held 9-2/07/202 Ta Liesse, alletta over a weekend in July. The aim of the event is not only to give visitors the opportunity to sample some of the best local wines but also to present a cultural event tied to a Mediterranean theme. The Malta International Jazz Festival takes place annually in July over three nights at Ta Liesse down by the alletta quay inside the Grand Harbour. A line-up of top international and Maltese artistes present an eclectic mix of jazz styles from the contemporary musical scene. In the past, world famous artistes such as John Scofield, Al i Meola, Chick Corea, ee ee Bridgewater, Cubanismo, Michel Petrucciani, Betty Carter, and Joe Il-fjakkolata tradizzjonali tax-xlendi 5-6/07/202 Xlendi, Gozo Zawinul, Richard Bona and Esperanza Spalding amongst others, have performed to large crowds under a summer star-lit sky during this festival. The beauty of alletta s Grand Harbour by night is truly magical and tremendously evocative. Feast of St. George 2 5/07/202 ictoria, Rabat Gozo The feast of St.George in Gozo, is renowned for more than its sacred celebration. Amongst various attractions, traditional horse races take place in Republic Street on Sunday afternoon (feast day). St. George s Parish boasts a popular brass band known as the Banda La Stella which performs throughout the week. Farsons Great Beer Festival 4 27/07/- 05/08/202 National Park, Ta Qali Comprising of ten days of fun and open-air entertainment, this festival has become a much sought-after annual event that attracts locals and visitors alike. The festival naturally celebrates Malta s famous brews, whilst allowing the crowds to appreciate a wide array of immensely talented local musicians. JULY 202 enue ate ebsite Picture Reference Sunglasses at Night 28/07/202 Gianpula Complex, l/o Rabat The inaugural Sunglasses at Night Festival 202 will be held over the various areas of the Gianpula Complex. Music lovers of every taste will find their haven as Malta parties under the stars! 28 29

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17 elicata ine Festival and Nadur ine Festival 09-2/08/202 Upper Barrakka Garden, alletta & Nadur, Gozo Last week of August or First week of September 202 Nadur (Gozo) - elicata, considered one of Malta s top wine producers, organises these two festivals of wine tasting and musical entertainment, one held at the Upper Barrakka Gardens in alletta and the other in Nadur, Gozo. image by: Michael Francis Farrugia Xlendi Open Air Film Screening 0 & 22/08/202 Xlendi, Gozo Feast of the Transfiguration of Christ the Saviour (Is-Salvatur) 06/08/202 Lija This is one of the more popular feasts in Malta, especially due to the spectacular fireworks displays associated with this celebration, most notably the air- and ground fireworks displays on the eve of the feast (5th August). AUGUST 202 enue ate ebsite Picture Reference Traditional Fjakkolata -2/08/202 Xlendi, Gozo Feast of St. Gaetan 2/08/202 Ħamrun The St. Gaetan feast in Ħamrun is widely regarded as the signature event for the much acclaimed Marċ tal-brijju (or festive march) which is held on the day of the feast, starting in mid-morning and ending in the afternoon. The rivalry that exists between Ħamrun s two main band clubs makes this celebration one of the most exciting feasts in Malta and Gozo. Feast of The Assumption of Our Lady (Santa Marija) 5/08/202 arious towns and villages The Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady (Santa Marija) is considered to be the pinnacle of the festa season. Celebrated in various towns and villages in Malta and Gozo this feast is also a Public Holiday. Iljieli Mellieħin 7-9/08/202 Around Mellieħa Iljieli Melliħin have become part of the local cultural calendar and a mark of quality with the experience gained during the years. Artists exhibiting and working on paintings as well as fret work (arkett), lace making and other sorts of projects are just some of the highlights of this year s edition. Join the Mellieha community to celebrate one of the most picturesque localities in the Maltese Islands. Sunglasses at Night 3/08/202 Numero Uno, Ta Qali Last years biggest local event returns for 202 with the Sunglasses Summer Special at Numero Uno. Held over the peak Summer period, if you are lucky enough to be in Malta O NOT miss it! 32 33

18 Notte a Casal Paola - Storja - Arti - Mużika 0/09/202 Raħal Ġdid Enjoy Traditional Games 0/09/202 Birżebbuġa Il-Fjakkolata Tradizzjonali tax-xlendi 0 & 02/09/202 Xlendi, Gozo Rabat Arts Festival 0 & 02/09/202 Ir-Rabat, Malta The Fgura Arts and Food fighting Festival 02/09/202 Fgura Opera Open Air Film Screening 05 & 20/09/202 Xlendi, Gozo Iljieli Skalin 07-09/09/202 Marsaskala Lejl f Casal Fornaro 4-5/09/202 Ħal Qormi Casal Fornaro, translated literally as the village of the baker, was the name by which Ħal Qormi was commonly referred to in bygone days. This festival celebrates Maltese traditions, customs, music and food, especially bread-making. Thousands of people gather in Qormi for this event which has now become a mainstay of the annual cultural calendar. Cultural Expressions - The International Festival of Maritime Senglea 4-6/09/202 Senglea (Isla) Xogħol, Ikel u xorb matul il-medda taż-żminijiet 5/09/202 Marsa An event highlighting the connection between traditional maritime trades and the traditional culinary fare that used to be consumed by workers in the port town of Marsa. enue ate ebsite Picture Reference Maria Bambina / Il-itorja 08/09/202 Senglea (Isla) A religious and a national feast commemorating the victory of the legendry Great Siege of 565. The main event is the National rowing Regatta held in the Grand Harbour, alletta. The rowing teams stem from the Harbour area towns and villages and the competition is fierce, making it a colourful and fun event to follow. Semi Classical concert at il-knisja l-qadima 09/09/202 Siġġiewi SEPTEMBER 202 enue ate ebsite Picture Reference 34 35

19 The 7th Edition of the Qala International Folk Festival 20-23/09/202 Qala, Gozo The four day festival focuses on folk music, song and dance. The event is hosted by the Menhir Qala Folk Group, which together with local and foreign folk groups present numerous performances. The commemoration of local traditions related to children s games and a traditional mock wedding add to the entertainment value of this event, which also stretches over to Malta for a day. 3 Independence ay 2 2/09/202 alletta & Floriana An official programme of commemorative events is organised to mark this national holiday which celebrates the anniversary of Malta s Independence in 964. This commemoration include high mass, a military parade and a salute to the President of the Republic as well as a concert by the National Philharmonic orchestra. Sculpture Symposium and Festival 24-30/09/202 Kirkop Żejt iż-żejtun 29-30/09/202 Żejtun Undisputedly one of the most sought after events by locals and tourists alike, Żejt iż-żejtun welcomes the olive picking season by organising olive pressing demonstrations, pageantry, crafts demonstrations and other family oriented activities, all set in one of the oldest villages in Malta s South. Olives and their various by-products are also on sale. 2 enue ate ebsite Picture Reference enue ate ebsite Picture Reference Malta International Airshow /09/202 Old Malta International Airport (Luqa) Spend an enjoyable day with family and friends visiting the static display of aircraft and helicopters at the old runway in Luqa. Around lunch-time a spectacular aerial display is held over the airfield. At the show one should expect to find a variety of aircraft from the ultra-light to sleek fighter jets and giant transport planes. Notte Bianca 29/09/202 alletta Notte Bianca is an all-night event held in Malta s capital city. The event embodies the spirit of an open city where, for one whole night, alletta s monuments and important buildings are open and accessible to all until the early hours. Many different and original events are organised throughout the night in alletta, shops open till late and restaurants serve food all night long. Literally tens of thousands of locals and visitors alike flock to the capital for this much awaited event. Bormla Culturefest People Past and present 29-30/09/202 Bormla (Cospicua) 36 37

20 Imqabba through the ages 05/0/202 Mqabba This event centres around the village of Mqabba- a village renowned for its stone quarries and fireworks manufacturing, amongst others. Mqabba is also one of the Islands older villages having a rich and varied historical past, still evident in and around the village. Festubru 05-07/0/202 Kerċem (Gozo) The quiet and picturesque village of Kercem celebrates through this initiative the rich fabric of Maltese traditions and costumes, especially those pertaining to the sister Island of Gozo. The Mdina Grand Prix 4-4/0/202 Mdina Turandot by Giacomo Puccini 3/0/202 Aurora Theatre ictoria, Rabat Gozo Malta Military Tattoo 2 3-4/0/202 MFCC, (Malta Fairs & Conventions Centre), Ta Qali The 9th Malta Military Tattoo provides a highly entertaining atmosphere with precision marching and formations displays and above all good music. The 202 Tattoo will once again include foreign military bands and local massed pipes and drums band, the Malta Police Precision rill team, the Malta Police Band and the Armed Forces of Malta Band. BirguFest 3 9-2/0/202 ittoriosa (Birgu) Birgu is one of Malta s oldest and most historically-important cities. uring the Birgu by Candlelight event the streets are lit up by the gentle glow several of thousands of candles. However, Birgufest has developed further, offering a varied programme of entertainment and events held in both indoor and outdoor locations. The historic re-enactments, museums with extended opening hours, cheaper entrance fees and the opening to the public of other venues including churches, emphasize the immense historic value of this city. In addition, food stalls offering Maltese and other food, various musical concerts and various exhibitions make this event truly outstanding and a must-visit. Symphony of Light 20-2/0/202 Santa Luċija, Għasri Gozo This event aims to bring together people from all walks of life from around the world to enjoy the picturesque square and silent streets of this quaint hamlet. uring the event one will be offered the opportunity to enjoy the culture and traditions of this old Gozitan location, whilst promoting its wealth of intangible cultural heritage by taking a walk through history. enue ate ebsite Picture Reference 4 OCTOBER 202 enue ate ebsite Picture Reference

21 The Rolex Middle Sea Race Beginning 20/0/202 Malta Sicily Malta The Rolex Middle Sea Race is a highly-rated and internationally renowned offshore classic. The Royal Malta Yacht Club and the Royal Ocean Racing Club co-founded the race in 968. In recent years, the number of entries has risen to around 70 boats. The race is a true challenge to skippers and crews who have to be at their very best to cope with the often variable and demanding conditions. On the other hand, the race is blessed with unsurpassed scenery with its course taking competitors close to a number of islands. Festival Mediterranea 25/0-24//02 ictoria, Rabat Gozo ictoria (Rabat, Gozo) Festival Mediterranea unveils Gozo as a mosaic of Mediterranean civilisation, heritage and art. It is indeed a showpiece of a hundred things, an opportunity for a break from the routine of conventional life; a chance to immerse oneself in the mellow world of Gozo s autumn, and explore and live the cultural tradition of its 7000 years of history. Chocolate Festival 27/0/202 Ħamrun A chocoholic s delight, the chocolate festival turns the use of chocolate into an art form. New recipes are prepared, a wide variety of chocolate products can be bought and an interesting array of chocolate sculptures can be viewed during this tantalizing event. arious forms of entertainment are also presented during the evening. Madama Butterfly by Giacomo Puccini 25-27/0/202 Astra Theatre ictoria Gozo Teatru Astra will stick to its 0-year tradition of producing operatic performances the last Saturday of October and the Thursday preceding it, with the dates chosen for this year being 25 and 27 October 202. The Madama Butterfly is expected to open what will be the th edition of this annual festival of culture that seeks to expose that which the island of Gozo is well-known for in the cultural field: opera, music, history, archaeology, trades and traditions. Commemorating Gozo ay 27 & 28/0/202 Gozo Regional Committee enue ate ebsite Picture Reference 40 image by Rolex / Kurt Arrigo 4

22 Arts, Hobbies & Crafts Exhibition 04-06//02 Naxxar 2 22nd International Marathon Challenge //202 arious localities arious localities in Malta Better known as the Challenge, this annual Maltese marathon features a unique three-stage formula, where every phase has a different distance but the overall length is still that of a regular marathon. isitors can watch the start of the first stage at Mdina, the second at Birżebbuġa and the final one at St Paul s Bay. More info on the website. MALTA MUSIC AARS (MMAs) 24//202 MFCC, (Malta Fairs & Conventions Centre), Ta Qali The Malta Music Awards have become a much sought-after annual event, attented by thousands. The MMAs include various categories of awards for Maltese performers during the year, as well as international guests of repute performing on the night. A must for all those who appreciate music provided by local artistes. NOEMBER 202 enue ate ebsite Picture Reference 42 43

23 Christmas in Malta & Gozo ecember 202 arious localities Malta is a country with very strong religious traditions, and at Christmas-time this becomes even more evident in the numerous events and celebrations which take place across the country. The main focus is religious, though the secular aspect increases year on year. Many villages have street decorations as well as large, life-size cribs. Churches are brightly lit and decorated to highlight the joy of the season. Many villages host crib exhibitions, with cribs of all sizes and materials on display, with the ever- increasing popularity of mechanical cribs making these exhibitions a unique experience. The high point of the Christmas season is definitely midnight mass with the traditional sermon recited by a young child. Christmas fairs are increasing in popularity and here one can enjoy festive music, food and entertainment for all the family. These events bring together the religious and secular dimensions of Christmas. Like many countries Malta also has seasonal food especially sweets; Ilqagħaq ta l-għasel are an old favourite: honey rings filled with mouth-watering fruit-based honey, l imbuljuta : deliciously stewed chestnuts to warm you up. atch out for a more detailed program on the website

24 The Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Our Lady, Il Kunċizzjoni 08/2/202 Cospicua (Bormla) The feast of the Immaculate Conception of Our Lady is regarded as an important feast in Malta s liturgical calendar, held in the historic town of Bormla, one of the famous Three Cities. The feast is also one of the few major feasts celebrated outside the summer months and is also a public holiday. Nadur Christmas Market 02-04/2/202 Nadur, Gozo Bay Music Awards 2 2/2/202 Bay Arena St Julian This will be the 8th edition of the Awards with an incredible line-up of Malta s highest ranked talent. The BMA s focus on rewarding local artists for their contribution on the airwaves over the past 2 months and is the most anticipated music event on the island. The Awards will be given out by some of Malta s top personalities for the following categories: Best Newcomer; Best ance Tune/Remix; Best Song; Best Solo Artist; and Best Band. The BMAs will be giving out the Bay Bands Trophy and another new award The Bay Presenters choice award, where the 89.7 Bay s presenters will be choosing and awarding the best featured track. ECEMBER enue ate ebsite Picture Reference Cribs Exhibitions 7/2/202 06/0/203 Auberge d Italie (alletta) The long-standing tradition of crib-making is highlighted in a unique exhibition of cribs made from various materials and utilising a wide range of techniques. Also included in the exhibition are other Christmas related artworks. 3 Bethlehem f Għajnsielem First weekend of ecember 202 to the First weekend of January 203 (TBC) Għajnsielem (Gozo) The organisation of a large animated crib in Gozo spanning 20,000 sqm of fields and buildings promises to bring the timeless Christmas story to life as never before. The atmosphere is simply unique. The stretch of land known locally as Ta Passi is slowly changed into a large living crib, where horses turn mills, villagers go about their jobs, shepherds inhabit caves, animals roam in enclosed spaces and a poor unknown couple tend their newly-born in a stable. Paqpaqli għall-istrina /2/202 Malta International Airport, Luqa This is the biggest annual motoring event in Malta organized for The President of Malta by acclaimed motoring journalist Tonio armanin to raise funds for the Community Chest Fund. 202 is the seventh edition and the fourth to be held at the Malta International Airport. Each year the event has grown in importance and in popularity with the 200 edition attracting international participants such as Lamborghini with the Reventon and the Murcielago and Mercedes with the SLS AMG. The event drewmore than 3,000 visitors and it generated over Euro 80,000 for charity. Millied Mellieħi 2-25/2/202 Mellieħa Open Air New Year s Eve Celebrations 3/2/202 alletta and Floriana The New Year s Eve celebrations in St Anne s Street, Floriana and St. George s square, alletta which are two of Malta s main thoroughfares, are expected to cater for thousands of people who animate this special night. On the main stage one should expect a variety of musical performances from Malta s top singing artistes together with spectacular dance shows. uring the night, various pubs, wine bars and restaurants will be open till late to celebrate this special occasion. New Year in the City Celebrating the New Year in the Gozitan City 3/2/202 Gozo 46 47

25 In Guardia Parades January to July/September to ecember 202 Fort St. Elmo, alletta The In Guardia Parade is a re-enactment that portrays an authentic event that took place regularly inside Fort St. Elmo. The event recreates the inspection of the fort and its garrison by the Grand Bailiff of the Order of the Knights of St. John in charge of military affairs. uring the reenactment, the soldiers and knights of the fort s garrison some 70 re-enactors are kitted-out in their finest uniforms and perform a military drill demonstrating to the Grand Bailiff the garrison s state of readiness in the event of a military threat. The show begins at.00 am and lasts 40 minutes. Alarme Re-Enactments February/March/May/October/November 202 Fort St. Elmo, alletta Alarme is a military re-enactment that portrays the historic and turbulent tenure of Malta by French troops, following Napoleon s landing and conquest of the islands in 798. The re-enactment gives an account of the French troops arrival in Malta, the subsequent attempt to administer the Maltese Islands by the new Republican government, the rebellion of the Maltese that led to the blockade of the French troops inside the harbour towns, as well as the French troops surrender to the British in 800. The re-enactment lasts 50 minutes. Recurring Events enue ate ebsite Picture Reference enue ate ebsite Picture Reference Recurring Events 48 49

26 AFM Band and isplay & Changing of the Guard January to July/ September to ecember 202 alletta The new guard together with the AFM Military Band will leave alletta City Gate at 0.00hrs and should take position in the forecourt of the Presidential Palace (St George s Square) at around 0.5hrs. Once there, a formal ceremony takes place in which sentries providing ceremonial guard duties at important institutions are relieved by a new batch of sentries. After the ceremony of the changing of the guard, the AFM Military Band will then head back to City Gate together with the old guard. For the detailed schedule please visit. Recurring Events enue ate ebsite Picture Reference Useful Information Tourist Information Offices: Malta International Airport - Arrivals Lounge TEL: (+356) alletta - 229, Auberge Italie, Merchants Street TEL: (+356) Mdina - Torre ello Standardo, St. Publius Square TEL: (+356) Mellieħa - Misraħ iż-żjara tal- Papa Ġwanni Pawlu II - 26 ta Mejju 990 TEL: (+356) alletta aterfront (iset), Pinto harf TEL: (+356) ictoria GOZO - No 7, Independence Square, ictoria Gozo TEL: (+356) Customer Enquiries: info@visitmalta.com FREEPHONE: ates and event details are subject to change. For accurate information and the latest updates please consult 50 Published by the Malta Tourism Authority esign by Mario Galea - MTA Production by Mark Abdilla - MTA Editor Kevin rake - MTA

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