For the fourth consecutive year, the Naxxar Local Council is organising the revival of Il-Huggiega Ta’ San Gwann. This family event, which was the idea of Dr George Mifsud Chircop, will be held on Friday at Darnino Square, starting with various street activities at 6pm.

During the time of the Knights of St John, the tradition was for a bonfire to be lit on St John’s Eve, that is 23 June, as part of the celebrations in honour of their patron saint.

The local council has invited BS Productions to organise this event, which includes a festive atmosphere of traditional Maltese folk singing (ghana), sketches as well as the actual bonfire of St John.

Folk singers (ghannejja) will go round in the traditional karrozzin singing traditional ghana along the streets of Naxxar. At the same time, there will be a procession featuring the Grand Master, the Archbishop, and other historical personalities. At 7pm all the characters will meet at Naxxar Square, stopping in front of the local council building to read what is known as the bandu.

Everyone will then move on to Darnino Square where a number of activities will be held. There will be stands with information on traditional trades, ghana, and a sketch featuring Kuncett and Marinton, the two characters created by Trevor Zahra, who have always managed to put a smile on many faces.

There will also be stands with traditional foods and local wines as well activities for children.