Ever wondered how the City of the Knights of Malta could be transformed into a Christmas Village? Then, on the 21st and 22nd of December head down to the City of Birgu for Natale al Collachio - The Vittoriosa Christmas Festival.
Set in the old and quaint streets of Vittoriosa, with the magnificent backdrop of the port of Valletta, this Christmas Festival will stand out for most of the lore and traditions surrounding Christmas in Malta, which will be part and parcel of this unique Christmas Festival.
Indeed the event will start with a traditional procession with Baby Jesus, a tradition which started over 89 years ago. Carol singing and the Xghajra Pipes and Drums group will lighten up the atmosphere on the day. At the end of the procession, the statue of Baby Jesus will be laid down at the life-size Crib at the Sacra Infermeria Crypt, which forms part of the monastery of Santa Skolastika. The Benedictine Cloister nuns will also open the doors of their church, where they will host the angelic choir of the Joy Gospel Singers on Friday 21st at 7:30pm. The Joy Gospel Singers will be giving their annual Christmas Concert free of charge, which will include some of the most popular Christmas Carols and spirituals.
Escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the Post of Castille area, illuminated solely by candlelight, an idea synonymous with the City of Birgu. Enjoy a glass of mulled wine and choose your favourite whiskey from our whiskey bar, whilst listening to the acoustic group Bernie & Pod or the up and coming band Sterjotipi.
Natale al Collachio is definitely intended to be an event for all the family,as the organisers have guaranteed some family-oriented fun, where the litlle ones can also enjoy the Christmas spirit. There will be Christmas crafts, sandy crafts and a bouncy castle, not to mention a visit by Santa himself. In fact Santa's little elves have been busy crafting his house. The Auberge d'Angleterre will be magically transformed into Santa's house where your little ones can go and meet Santa himself.
With a blaze of lights glittering over the narrow and winding streets, a thick scent of mulled wine in the air and the sound of festive music, Natale al Collachio will set the atmosphere for Christmas cheer. Explore the stalls for a handcrafted original item or indulge in the famous imbuljuta all whilst sipping a glass of hot chocolate. So mark your calendars, come along and enjoy the Christmas merriment in the City of Vittoriosa, on the 21st and 22nd of December from 7pm onwards, at Natale al Collachio, organised by TEN08 together with the Birgu Local Council.
For further information and for the programme of the event, make sure to follow our FB page - https://www.facebook.com/ten08/