The Carnival of Malta is set to unfold its vibrant festivities from the 9th to the 13th of February 2024. This cherished annual celebration, deeply embedded in the tapestry of our historical narrative, transcends its traditional roots to emerge as a dynamic, contemporary event that unites families and captivates the hearts of the Maltese and global visitors alike.

Carnival serves as a pivotal fixture in our cultural calendar, not merely as a nostalgic nod to our historical and heritage values, but as a living, breathing testament to the vitality of our contemporary society. Over the years, it has metamorphosed into a major attraction for tourists, adding an extra layer of allure to our islands during this joyous period of revelry.

The upcoming Carnival of 2024 holds the promise of being extraordinary, featuring the enthusiastic participation of approximately 23 companies. A standout and emotionally resonant feature of this year's celebration a tribute dedicated to the memory of Pawlu Curmi, affectionately known as 'il-Pampalun.' His indelible contribution to the Carnival makes this year's festivities particularly special, marking the first Carnival since his passing.

While the customary parades, adorned with vibrant floats, will gracefully traverse the streets of Valletta and Floriana, the Carnival's program extends far beyond, offering a diverse array of events. One of the noteworthy highlights is the Qarċilla, a traditional street theater form with roots in the time of the Knights of St. John. This year, the Qarċilla will bring its ten-year revival to a close with a captivating performance directed and produced by Joseph Galea, featuring the script by the esteemed Ċikku l-Poplu. What enhances the appeal of this theatrical treat is that it will be hosted in Triq l-Ordinanza (next to the Royal Theatre) and, in a gesture of inclusivity and accessibility, will be free of charge.

The cultural resonance of the Carnival extends beyond the grandiose celebrations in Valletta and Floriana, now reaching into new communities this year – Ħamrun and, for the first time, Żurrieq. Through the Carnival, we have the unparalleled opportunity to showcase the depth and breadth of Maltese talent on the international stage, thereby contributing to the ongoing success of our Carnival year after year.

In a heartfelt tribute to Pawlu Curmi, whose influence on the Carnival remains immeasurable, Festivals Malta, in collaboration with Spazju Kreattiv and Heritage Malta, presents an exhibition titled 'Pawlu Curmi 'Il-Pampalun': The Man and the Legend.' The esteemed historian Mario Coleiro has been entrusted with the curation of this exhibition, offering a comprehensive journey through the life and legacy of this Carnival luminary.

To further commemorate Pawlu Curmi's enduring legacy, a documentary will be broadcasted in collaboration with Popolin on TVM, providing an intimate exploration into his profound impact on the Carnival and the broader cultural landscape.

One last point: Carnival holds a unique enchantment for children, a time when the streets come alive with vibrant colours, joyous laughter, and the promise of fun and adventure.  The anticipation of donning elaborate costumes, engaging in lively parades, and partaking in the merriment fills kids’ hearts with excitement.

As we eagerly await Carnival 2024, it is with absolute certainty that this celebration will be a splendid opportunity for kids to forge unforgettable memories. The festivities are designed to ignite their imagination, fostering a sense of wonder and camaraderie that will stay with them for years to come. From the exuberant energy of the crowd to the magical allure of the themed floats, Carnival creates a world where every child can be a part of something extraordinary 

In the spirit of tradition and festivity, Carnival 2024 promises to be a whimsical journey for our young ones, offering them the chance to create cherished moments that will be treasured for a lifetime.

Another Gem in Valletta - the Oratory of the Onorati in the Church of the Jesuits in Valletta

I was very glad to have witnessed the completion of the beautiful restoration works at the Oratory of the Onorati in the Church of the Jesuits in Valletta. This significant project, totaling an investment of €1.7 million from national funds, also includes the restoration of the Immaculate Conception Oratory and the Sacristy.

Undertaken by the dedicated team of the Restoration and Preservation Division, these efforts mark a pivotal moment in preserving the rich history of our beloved church. Both oratories, dedicated to the Onorati and the Immaculate Conception, now stand as shining examples of our cultural and religious heritage.

It is not just about bricks and mortar; it's about revitalizing the heart of our capital city. The restoration extends beyond the physical structure to the very essence of our national identity. These efforts are integral to ensuring that the Maltese and Gozitan people can continue to cherish and celebrate our unique heritage.  Also we are also creating new creative spaces as the Oratories will be available for cultural events such as small concerts.

In addition to the oratory restorations, we have also invested in the restoration of houses, cupolas, upper chapels, belfries, and the facade of the Church on Merchants Street, Archbishop Street, and St. Paul's Street since 2015. This ongoing commitment to our cultural heritage is a testament to our dedication to preserving our past for generations to come.

The journey does not stop here. We are currently in the process of internally restoring the church, a project known to the public for the ongoing gradations it is undergoing. An additional investment of €1.65 million is allocated to ensure the meticulous restoration of the church's interior.

This investment is not just a monetary contribution; it is a commitment to the cultural and artistic fabric of our community. Our cultural heritage has the power to attract visitors, offering them a unique experience of our religious and artistic legacy.

As we embark on this significant investment journey, totaling €5 million from national funds, we are not just restoring a church; we are safeguarding a piece of our nation's history. The impact reaches far beyond the church walls, contributing to the vibrant cultural landscape of Valletta.

Alongside the restoration of the Oratory of the Onorati, we have also inaugurated the restoration of various paintings with an investment of €220,000 from European funds. These paintings, a collaborative effort of Baroque artists Stefano Erardi and Filippino Dingli, speak volumes about our artistic heritage.

I invite you to come and witness the visible results achieved in the conservation and restoration of both oratories and the sacristy. This meticulous work not only returns the beauty of Baroque spaces to the local community but also establishes a new cultural center in Valletta.

This restoration and the church is not just about preserving the physical structures. It is about preserving our identity, our history, and our cultural legacy for generations to come.