Summer Carnival Returns to Bugibba and Marsascala This Weekend
Summer Carnival is making its lively return to St Paul’s Bay and Marsascala this year. Festivals Malta, in collaboration with local councils, will be bringing this event to life from Friday, 23 August through Sunday, 25 August, with festivities kicking off at 8 pm each night.
This isn’t just any ordinary festival. According to Culture Minister Owen Bonnici, it’s a showcase of the best of traditional Maltese carnival—think vibrant floats and energetic dances—but on a more intimate scale. The event serves as both entertainment and a celebration of the artistic craftsmanship that makes the Maltese carnival so unique.
The Minister emphasised that this summer extravaganza is a fantastic way to boost awareness about the cultural and artistic significance of the carnival. Jason Busuttil, the Artistic Director of the Maltese Carnival, added that the Bugibba promenade will come alive on Friday and Saturday nights with a grand defile, while the celebrations will move to Wied il-Għajn on Sunday evening.
Expect the streets to be awash with colour, joy, and dance, as numerous floats and dance companies create a carnival atmosphere in preparation for the grand Malta Carnival in February. Festivals Malta’s chairman, Aaron Zahra, sees this Summer Carnival as an annual opportunity to give locals and tourists alike a sneak peek into what makes Maltese Carnival a cherished cultural tradition.
Strategically planned during a high-tourism period, the event will allow visitors to experience a “small taste” of the February festivities while exploring different parts of the island. According to Frans Agius, CEO of Festivals Malta, this is an excellent way to celebrate Maltese artistry and culture, while also giving enthusiasts a chance to showcase their talents.
For more details on the Summer Carnival programme, visit the website here!
