Celebrating Malta’s Festive Heritage: Official Launch Of FUQ IL-FESTA
The Minister for National Heritage, Arts and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, officially launched FUQ IL-FESTA during a press conference at the Manoel Theatre.
This celebration of Maltese feasts comes following their recognition as part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
For the occasion, the galleries of the Manoel Theatre were illuminated in vibrant festival colours, reflecting the lively spirit of the event and Malta’s rich festive culture. The name FUQ IL-FESTA symbolises the elevation of Malta’s beloved feasts to new heights, recognising them as cultural events with both local roots and global significance.
Minister Bonnici highlighted the importance of UNESCO’s recognition, explaining that these feasts are no longer just local traditions but now form part of the shared cultural heritage of the world. He stressed the need to continue celebrating, preserving and promoting these traditions while honouring their deep cultural significance.
Plans for the future of Malta’s feasts were also outlined, including initiatives to support their growth and international exposure.
FUQ IL-FESTA 2024 will take place on October 19th at Triton Square in Valletta and promises to be a spectacular day of celebration. The event will feature a solemn mass at St John’s Co-Cathedral, with a special homily by Monsignor Pawl Vella, celebrating the cultural and religious importance of the feast.
A spectacular mass band performance, led by Maestro Jonathan Vella, will follow, with hundreds of musicians playing Malta’s most iconic festival marches. A new march, composed by Ray Sciberras to mark UNESCO’s recognition, will also be premiered.
Interactive workshops for children and families will be offered, including traditional crafts like Liedna, Fistuni and Pavaljuni, along with a special demonstration of qubbajd (nougat) making.
A limited-edition set of cards, Mazz Vari (comparison cards), illustrated by Iella and depicting Malta’s beloved festival statues, will be launched alongside a commemorative book written by Simon Bartolo, celebrating the rich history and traditions of Maltese feasts.
The day will conclude with a synchronised fireworks display set to the Maltese national anthem, to be enjoyed both at the event and broadcast live.
Following Minister Bonnici’s address, a dynamic panel discussion moderated by journalist Reno Bugeja took place. Panellists included Dr Noel Camilleri (President of the National Band Club Association), Sandro Borg (fireworks expert), Fr Aaron Zahra (Dominican priest), Jessica Ellul (San Giljan Band Director), Dr Mariella Mizzi Attard (President of the 12th May Band Club), Dr Jean Paul Baldacchino (anthropology lecturer), Dr Alex Vella Gregory (composer and musicologist) and Dr Aleks Farrugia (Director of the Culture Directorate).
The discussion explored the evolution of Maltese feasts in modern times and how they can continue to evolve while staying true to their roots. Topics included balancing tradition and innovation, preserving the cultural identity of the feasts, and the responsibility that comes with UNESCO recognition for Malta to safeguard this unique aspect of its heritage.