Celebrating the Feast of L-Imnarja
Various types of livestock on show during the farm animal competition
Imnarja, a traditional Maltese festival celebrated on 29 June , honours St Peter and St Paul with folk music, delicious food, and fireworks. Held in Buskett Gardens, it showcases Maltese culture and heritage.
The Maltese people have a particular place in their hearts for L-Imnarja, one of the most treasured and traditional feasts in Malta. Its beginnings are connected to the antiquated Roman celebration known as Luminaria, which occurred even before the Knights of St John arrived in Malta in 1530. Over the years, this momentous occasion honouring light has changed, including a variety of customs that showcase Malta’s diverse cultural heritage.
Celebrated on 29 June, L-Imnarja pays tribute to two important saints in Maltese Catholicism: St. Peter and St. Paul. But the celebration now includes a wide range of traditions that extend beyond religious devotion. The word “Imnarja” itself comes from the Greek word “luminaria,” which refers to the flames and lights that previously adorned the cathedral’s roofs and bastion walls in Mdina, portraying the saints as the church’s lighthouses.
The festivities, which give a distinctive twist on the traditional Maltese festa, begin in the evening of June 28 at Buskett Gardens. In contrast to other feasts that are typified by processions through the streets and pyrotechnics, L-Imnarja’s celebrations at Buskett Gardens offer a more serene environment. This lush haven turns into a hive of activity, with the sounds of traditional Maltese music and the aromas of freshly made local cuisine filling the air.
The liturgical service held at the Cathedral in Mdina is an important part of L-Imnarja. By honouring St. Peter and St. Paul, these sombre rituals firmly establish the feast’s religious foundation. After the service, traditional horse and donkey races take place on a country road close to Mdina, bringing a festive and competitive atmosphere. The Palju, a distinguished banner given by the Grand Master of the Order, was originally awarded to the winners of several historically notable races. The Palju is still a sought-after trophy today, signifying the custom’s enduring significance.
The celebration of L-Imnarja, commonly known as the farmer’s feast, is closely linked to Malta’s agricultural heritage. For farmers, it signifies a period of relaxation and joy after harvest. Farmers celebrated the fruits of their labor and honoured the saints by lighting fires, a custom that gave the feast its name. This link to agriculture is still visible today, as the feast highlights regional products and customs from the farming community, weaving together a colourful mosaic of Malta’s rural history.
Beyond its agricultural roots, Maltese wedding customs provide L-Imnarja a unique place of honour. In the past, the groom would traditionally give the bride’s father a dowry on this day, and a marriage contract would be officially sealed by a notary. A commitment to accompany the bride to important feasts like St Gregory, St John, and, of course, Imnarja, was also part of this pact. The bride would put on her wedding gown and join in the celebrations throughout the feast, signifying the start of her new life. The bride drank ‘ċomnota,’ a traditional beverage mixed with honey and aromatic herbs that symbolises fertility and prosperity. Even though they are not as prevalent now, these traditions serve to emphasise the importance of L-Imnarja to Maltese marriage rituals.
L-Imnarja is now a lively event that draws both locals and visitors in the present day. When people congregate to take part in the celebrations, there is a strong sense of community and cultural pride. The feast is still relevant in Maltese society today since it has grown to encompass a variety of events that appeal to a wide spectrum of people.
Every June, the Mnarja Folk Festival is a highlight of the L-Imnarja celebrations. This festival, which includes traditional dance, music, and food, is a celebration of Maltese folk culture. Maltese folk singing, known as Għana, is performed by artists costumed traditionally, and they
also display traditional dances that have been handed down through the years. In addition, local crafts like lace-making and filigree jewellery are on show during the festival, offering a glimpse into Malta’s rich artisanal past. A variety of traditional Maltese dishes, including pastizzi, qagħaq tal-għasel (honey rings), and rabbit stew, are available for sampling at food stalls.
The Mnarja Folk Festival is distinct in that it places a strong focus on community involvement. Both locals and guests are welcome to participate in the dancing, sing along to the folk tunes, and interact with the artisans. In addition to maintaining customs, this participatory method promotes cultural continuity and cohesion
The lights up of the gardens and neighbouring areas at dusk is the climax of the festivities. Thousands of lights and lanterns are lighted, creating a magnificent glow over the celebrations in homage to the ancient Luminaria custom. This light show commemorates the saints and represents hope, enlightenment, and the Maltese people’s enduring spirit.
The importance of L-Imnarja goes beyond its historical and cultural foundations. It acts as a reminder of Malta’s capacity to welcome change while holding fast to its traditions. The feast has evolved to meet modern needs without losing its soul, guaranteeing that it will continue to be a cherished occasion for years to come.
L-Imnarja demonstrates Malta’s unique cultural identity and enduring traditions. From its Roman beginnings to its current standing as a significant cultural occasion, the feast perfectly captures the essence of the Maltese people. Enjoying the lively ambiance of Buskett Gardens, taking part in the folk festival, or simply taking in the sights and sounds of L-Imnarja, gives an unforgettable and enriching experience that honours the finest aspects of Malta’s history.
