The 2023 edition of The Malta International Fish Fest will be held in Mellieha and Marsaxlokk in the coming weeks.

This event is dedicated to celebrating Maltese and Gozitan traditions related to fishing. The Malta International Fish Fest will be held at Fisherman’s Wharf, Marsaxlokk on Saturday, 30 September, and in Mellieħa near the Museum of Tuna Catchers on Sunday, 1 October.

Malta International Fish Fest 2023 is being held in two localities that are known for their fishing culture, and thus, will have a wider and more international perspective than seen in previous editions. Similar to past Malta International Fish Fests, this year’s event shall entail the sale of fish, and even the cooking and promotion of traditional fish typically caught in local waters, such as sea bass, sea bream, tuna, dolphinfish (lampuki), dogfish (mazzoli), and rays.

The local communities of Marsaxlokk and Mellieħa will participate in this event through the setting up of a number of educational stands. Moreover, those attending can expect free entertainment for children as well as music in the evening suitable for all ages.

Numerous awards shall also be given to celebrate fishermen as a way to praise those important in the promotion and strengthening of this sector.

Tourism Minister Clayton Bartolo said that aquaculture and everything else related to the sea was and remains to be an integral part of the Maltese tourist product. He said, “Our priorities must be to preserve our fishermen’s skills and history. When you have a healthy aquaculture, the product in hotels, restaurants, and from everyone directly or indirectly contributing to the tourism sector is strengthened.”

Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said also shared a few words on the importance of fishing in the Maltese islands, saying that it is part of our national history and identity.

“Through this festival, we are celebrating the work of fishermen who, in rain or sunshine, go outside our shores to earn their livelihoods and to provide food on our plates. This is an opportunity to raise awareness about the different species of fish offered in our country.”

Bugeja Said concluded by encouraging whole families to attend these types of activities so that we may recognize the hard work of Maltese and Gozitan fishermen.