One of the most important traditional feasts is L-iMnarja, celebrated on 29 June.

This year’s programme of activities kicks off on Saturday with a traditional bandu, which will be held in Valletta, Mdina and Rabat.

It starts in Freedom Square, Valletta at 10am, and in Rabat and Mdina at 7pm in front of the Mdina local council office.

The main activities, on 28 and 29 June, will be held at Buskett Gardens. The traditional races with animals will take place on Saqqajja Hill at 4pm on 29 June. There will be 25 races. Tourism and Culture Minister Francis Zammit Dimech will be giving out prizes to the winners.

The activities end with the traditional concert performed by the L’Isle Adam band of Rabat at 7.30pm.