Here’s what went down

Presented by BBC Radio 1 Dance Live and Creamfields, the Santa Marija weekend festival showcased its first slew of international acts to the masses. Arielle Free and Sarah Story opened the night after a warm-up session by local DJ Pocci.

The two were followed up by a set by English musician Elderbrook.

British indie band Bastille took to the stage shortly after Elderbrook, getting the massive crowd to sing along to favourites like Back To The Future, Good Grief and the classic Pompeii, and even garnered an audience-wide clap-along for Things We Lost in the Fire.

G-Eazy followed up Bastille’s incredible performance. Taking to Instagram later that night, G-Eazy wrote of his gratitude for the audience and the reception to his music.

“Crazy feeling seeing and hearing 40,000 people singing your song in a country you’ve never been to before. I’m so f***ing grateful for this life. New music on the way, I swear to you.”

She even commanded a capella takes on her songs from the crowd, and threw in a few jokes as the night went on.

Finally, American pop sensation Jason Derulo closed the night with epic choreography and performances of Swalla, Tip Toe, Wiggle, Ridin’ Solo, and Trumpets to name just a few. Derulo even told the crowd “inħobbok” as the performances were brought to an end.

What’s on next for SummerDaze Malta 2022?

SummerDaze Malta is not yet over. With two more days of events, there is still much to be had from the week-long festival.

16th August: Tony Effe Beach Party at Armier Bay Beach

Making his Malta debut, the official SummerDaze beach party will be headlined by none other than Italian rapper Tony Effe. Extend the Santa Marija long weekend at Armier Bay, on SummerDaze’s penultimate day, ahead of the final main festival line-up.

17th August: Headliners Day #2 at Ta’ Qali National Park

Rounding off a jam-packed eight-day lineup, the second day of the main SummerDaze Malta 2022 festival is organised in collaboration with Radio Deejay and M2O.

Dance the final night away to live performances by J-Ax, Baby K, Corona, Ice MC and a special guest performance by Meduza. You’ll also be treated to Deejay Times’ Albertino, Fargetta, Molella and Prezioso, and the whole show will be backed up by dancers, an MC, hosts and musicians provided by the Shake It crew.

This event will kick off at 4pm.