Vision Malta 2050: A National Dialogue On The Future Of The Maltese Festa
Yesterday, the second national conference on the future of the Maltese Festa was held at the Manoel Theatre, aiming to generate ideas and foster civic engagement around the future of this cherished tradition in our islands.
The first edition of the conference took place last year as part of the Fuq il-Festa programme, an initiative launched to celebrate the Maltese festa being granted UNESCO’s title of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This year’s conference formed part of the national consultation process Vision Malta 2050.
The event brought together community leaders, artists, young people, policymakers and festa enthusiasts to discuss how this deeply treasured heritage can be preserved and strengthened for future generations – sustainably, inclusively and in a contemporary context.
Minister for Culture, the Arts and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, emphasised the importance of public participation in the consultation and the responsibility that comes with the UNESCO status.
“The festa, beyond being a national treasure, now also belongs to the cultural heritage of all humanity. That is why we must celebrate it, protect it together and ensure that it continues to thrive and evolve,” said Minister Bonnici.
Ronald Mizzi, Permanent Secretary within the Office of the Prime Minister, spoke about Vision Malta 2050 and the crucial role each citizen plays in shaping long-term cultural policy. He explained how culture, traditions and the festi hold a central place in this national vision.
“Looking ahead to 2050, we must ensure that the festa, like many aspects of our cultural identity, not only endures, but grows, renews itself and continues to unite the Maltese people. In a country that embraces its roots while boldly looking to the future, we can build a nation inspired by its heritage, driven by progress and committed to a high quality of life for all,” said Mr Mizzi.
The evening culminated in a public dialogue moderated by journalist Mark Laurence Zammit, who led a lively discussion with a panel composed of Dr Noel Camilleri – President, Band Club Association; President of the Madonna tal-Ġilju Society, Joseph A. Zammit; Prof. Norbert Bugeja – poet, thinker and academic; and Dr Ivan Piccinino – President of the King’s Own Band Club.
The discussion explored themes such as volunteerism, financial challenges, youth involvement, inclusion, the role of faith and the evolution of the festa in the digital and artificial intelligence age.
The public consultation remains open until 9th September. Find out more on the website.