Malta’s centuries-long Carnival will once again be celebrated from 9 to 13 February of this year, with traditional events and new initiatives for all families.
In a press conference on Monday, Minister for National Heritage Owen Bonnici spoke about the significance of Carnival in the country's cultural calendar.
He said that Carnival is not only important from a historical and heritage perspective but is also crucial as a lively and contemporary celebration in today's times.
Bonnici also mentioned that the Carnival of Malta serves as an attraction for tourists visiting during this period.
He said that the Carnival of Malta 2024 will be significant, with approximately 23 companies participating, a number which has not been reached since the 1980s.
Bonnici paid tribute to the memory of Pawlu Curmi, known as 'Pampalun,' who was considered by many as the father of the Carnival. This year’s Carnival will be the first one held after his passing.
This year's Carnival will not only feature colourful floats with various themes parading through the streets of Valletta and Floriana, but will also include several other events.
One event is the "Qarċilla," a traditional street theatre which was practiced in the times of the St John Knights, that will take place in Triq l-Ordinanza (next to the Royal Theater) and will be free of charge.
Chairperson of Festivals Malta Aaron Zahra said that Malta’s Carnival holds great significance and, this year, they will continue to build on this traditional annual event.
In addition to the major celebrations in Valletta and Floriana, the Carnival will also extend to Hamrun and, for the first time, to Zurrieq. Zahra mentioned that through the Carnival, they aim to showcase Maltese talent and culture on an international platform, making it a success year after year.
CEO of Festivals Malta Frans Agius spoke about Pawlu Curmi's legacy and how he contributed significantly to the celebratory nature of the Carnival.
Festivals Malta, in collaboration with Spazju Kreattiv and Heritage Malta, will host an exhibition at Spazju Kreattiv's Atriju, titled "Pawlu Curmi 'Il-Pampalun': Il-Bniedem u l-Leġġenda," curated by historian Mario Coleiro.
A documentary about Pawlu Curmi, produced in collaboration with Popolin, will also be broadcast on TVM.
The Artistic Director of the Carnival of Malta Jason Busuttil mentioned that this year's Carnival will feature a record number of participants for the dance competitions, with more than 23 companies showcasing costumes and choreographies.
“After a 25-year absence, we will also see the Maltese traditional band, the band accompanied with a float, and an entertainment group, starting in Hamrun on 4 February, then in Valletta on 10, 11 and 12 February,” Busuttil said.
He also spoke about the importance of inclusion, stating that the organizing committee is keen on ensuring participation from children and adults with special needs.
For more information about the program of the Carnival of Malta 2024, you can visit www.festivals.mt/karnival or the Carnival of Malta’s social media platforms on Facebook and Instagram.