Organisers of Malta's most sustainable not-for-profit festival are hoping to double the €8,000 they raised for charity last year, without denting their green credentials.
The Bubble Festival will be held between 18 and 24 September at the headland between Golden Bay and Riviera. This year it will be themed the Festival of Light, in celebration of Malta's marvellous sunshine.
Last year's festival made headlines for ensuring not a single kilogram of refuse went to landfill, and efforts have been stepped up for this year's event. All plastic and canned products have been phased out, with biodegradable containers, cups, forks and plates taking their place. Beer is served on draught instead of bottles or cans, and water dispensers should replace plastic water bottles. Furthermore, The Bubble has teamed up with clean-up and recycling NGO Żibel, which has organised clean-ups across the Maltese shoreline.
"Last year's massive effort to re-use all the litter and refuse from the festival was well received and The Bubble has become synonymous with the drive to become more sustainable," said festival organiser Duncan Fenech. "Food served at the festival will come from sustainable sources and we will seek to have zero waste from the festival."
Environment Minister Jose' Herrera is also a fan, commenting that, "The Bubble provides the public with the opportunity to enjoy one of Malta's most beautiful natural locations and to really connect with nature whilst learning about ways to live more sustainably."
Dr Herrera added that "apart from providing the opportunity of artistic expression to so many talented Maltese musicians and artists, the Bubble Festival also provides the NGOs involved a very good platform to explain their work to an interested and engaged public."
All proceeds from the festival go towards charitable causes, and three separate projects will benefit from funding this year (see below for details). The festival raised €8,000 last year for NGOs such as the Gaia Foundation, Why Not? and Right2Smile, and organisers are hoping to double that figure this time round.
The Bubble festival will feature a revamped healing area including workshops on anything from upcycling to personal development, permaculture and yoga, trail running and deep ecology.
Festival-goers who want a break from the music can join a relaxing herb walk in the beautiful Majjistral natural park.
Tickets cost €15 for a day pass, €35 for a week-long pass, €35 for a weekend camping ticket including festival entrance, and €50 for a week-long camping ticket with access to all areas. Pre-pitched tents are available for those who do not own their own camping equipment.
For tickets and more festival information, visit www.thebubble.com.mt.