A total of 25 cultural activities will take place across towns and villages in Malta and Gozo this summer, through the €500,000 funding scheme launched by the Directorate for Local Government. The initiative, announced by Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government Alison Zerafa Civelli and Director General of the Local Government Division Emil Vassallo, aims to enhance community engagement and tourism through a varied calendar of events.
The first round of beneficiaries includes 18 local councils in Malta and 7 in Gozo, with activities ranging from summer nights and agricultural exhibitions to other events that reflect the cultural identity of each locality. The initiative is part of the government's broader strategy to invigorate communities and sustain cultural life through seasonal events.
Parliamentary Secretary Zerafa Civelli highlighted that this is the first batch of events funded under the scheme, with further announcements expected in the coming months. She confirmed that the scheme will support a full programme of cultural activities running through to the end of the year. These events are designed to benefit not only residents but also tourists and visitors from outside the hosting localities.
"In recent years, we have ensured that Regional and Local Councils have adequate financial resources to keep their communities active throughout the year," said Zerafa Civelli. "We are issuing multiple funding schemes annually to enable activities tied to various seasons, such as Christmas, Easter and Summer. This supports our vision to maintain vibrant and dynamic localities through high-quality cultural events."
She added that government support for local councils is not limited to infrastructure and maintenance but also extends to strengthening the social and cultural fabric of communities. "It's not just about maintaining roads or refurbishing squares; it's also about investing in people's quality of life. Families, visitors, and tourists alike can enjoy what our communities have to offer through these activities," she said.
Director General Emil Vassallo noted that the list of participating councils includes those from less culturally active areas, showing that interest in community development through culture is growing. "We're pleased to see a wide spectrum of applications, including from localities that historically have not had a strong cultural tradition. This shows that more councils are recognising the importance of cultural engagement," Vassallo said.
The Maltese local councils selected for this round include Attard, Mellieħa, San Ġwann, Birkirkara, Gżira, Għargħur, Iklin, Sliema, Ta' Xbiex, Kalkara, Xgħajra, Luqa, Marsaxlokk, Santa Venera, Mdina, Dingli, Kirkop, and Żurrieq. In Gozo, the councils of Għajnsielem, Ta' Kerċem, Santa Luċija, Qala, Ta' Sannat, Xagħra, Xewkija, and Żebbuġ will also host events.
The announcement builds on the government's ongoing efforts to make localities more attractive and engaging year-round. The scheme is expected to contribute not only to social well-being but also to the local economy, as such events often bring increased footfall to local businesses and help promote cultural tourism.
More details about the upcoming events, including dates and specific activities, are expected to be released by the respective local councils in the weeks to come.