I enjoy village feasts during the summer and, week after week, I take my family to visit the locality where one of them is being held.

I must admit that, in spite of being such a small island, each and every feast has its own characteristics. For example, the feasts that are held in seaside villages are completely different from those that are held inland, and this is just a general explanation.

One thing that is common, unfortunately, is the presence of so many young people, some still in their early teens, who are seen with bottles of beer in their hands, visibly tipsy. Sometimes this happens in front of their parents and the police too.

Why people should get drunk during their village feast is a concept that has always escaped me. Village feasts are there to celebrate the patron saint, and although they are also a means of outdoor entertainment, I see no reason why people should get drunk.

The problem is that such behaviour seems to be condoned by society at large. It’s as if one has to get drunk during the village feast, or else he or she will be left out of the merry-making.

I believe that the Curia would do well to look into the matter. It has happened in the past that brawls ensued between rival supporters, or even supporters of the same band clubs, just because the people involved are too drunk to behave properly.

On the whole, feasts are a religious celebration which is part of our tradition and folklore. They should not be ruined by a small group of people who should know better.

Carmel Attard

Mosta