Two festivals were held last weekend, one to celebrate everything about fruit, and another to celebrate everything about milk and dairy products.

Festivals such as these are beginning to become more common and some are also being established as calendar dates. These events are not only a good day out, providing entertainment and something different to do, but also a stimulant to the economy, educational, and promotional.

When families have the opportunity to visit such events, they will invariably spend money on the products which are on offer – whether they are strawberries or cheeselets. The stands and those who exhibit during these fairs are also on hand to explain the processes of fruit growing, or milk making, allowing young and old to get a better understanding of how local products are made, and perhaps more importantly, what goes into them.

But perhaps the best thing about these events is that they allow for a better appreciation of Maltese products, and the people who toil to make them. Over the past few years, the world has embarked on a trend to ‘go natural and local’. This concept took time to take root in Malta and we lagged behind, in terms of thinking that produce from other countries is of better quality than what is made on our own shores.

Slowly but surely, people are coming round and realising that what is made or grown in Malta is fresher, and often superior in terms of quality and taste.

We have seen the same effect when other events have been organised – for example the farmers’ market, the olive festivals, the strawberry festival. There have also been a good number of activities that have been organised in localities such as Siġġiewi and Mellieħa (amongst a good many others), which have been resounding successes.

The truth is that Malta, like so many countries in the world, now has a pace of life that is very fast, and does not really allow us the time to relax and “be Maltese”. When such festivals are held, it is an opportunity for the whole family to get out and enjoy the simple trappings of our Mediterranean lifestyle.

The events also attract tourists, many of whom now actively search for such events as part of their holiday itinerary. All in all, there can never be enough of these events. They are fun, informative, and perhaps above all, they give us a sense of pride and belonging.