The stunning seven metre high Christmas tree produced by Mdina Glass has become a popular feature of Malta’s festive season ever since its first appearance wowed visitors in 2011. After two consecutive years in Valletta, the tree has now been set up in a new location and can be seen bringing added festive cheer to the bustling throng of Christmas shoppers in Sliema.

The huge structure, which is made up of over 2,000 handmade glass baubles and which took a team of eight glassmakers two days to install, will be situated in St Anne’s Square (site of the former Magic Kiosk) until the New Year. The tree illuminations were officially switched on by Sliema Mayor Mr Anthony Chircop.

As in previous years, a gazebo has been placed close to the Christmas tree from which passers-by can purchase handcrafted decorations for their home, or as gifts for friends and family. A share of the proceeds will be donated to L-Istrina.

The tree also forms part of the annual Mdina Glass Open Week, which runs from the 6th to the 15th December at all Mdina Glass outlets throughout Malta and Gozo. Apart from discounts of up to 75%, this year during the Open Week there are also added attractions for the family at the glassmakers’ Ta’ Qali premises, including appearances by Santa Claus, Bavarian hot dogs, candy floss and popcorn, a bouncy castle and face painting. A share of the Open Week sales will also be donated to L-Istrina.