The Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights has officially launched this year's Mnarja programme, one of the most traditional and culturally significant feasts in Malta's calendar.
Rooted in the celebration of the feast of Saints Peter and Paul, whose legacy is deeply intertwined with our country's religious and historical heritage, Mnarja is also a living tribute to what defines us as Maltese and Gozitans. At its core, it reminds us of the fundamental role agriculture and farming play in shaping our identity.
This year, Mnarja once again serves as a national platform to celebrate and honour the dedication, commitment, and invaluable contributions of our farmers, herders, and all those working, whether directly or indirectly, in this essential sector.
Held on 28 and 29 June at Buskett Gardens, the Mnarja festival brings together ancient traditions, animal exhibitions, locally-grown produce, folk music, and rural culture, all elements that proudly showcase our agricultural roots and national character.
It's worth remembering that Mnarja wasn't always held at Buskett. Its origins trace back to Roman times, when it was celebrated in villages under the name "Luminarja," from which today's name derives, marked by torch-lit processions and bonfires.
With the advent of Christianity, celebrations shifted to the grotto of Saint Paul in Rabat. By the 17th century, festivities began to take place in Mdina's main square, featuring fireworks, horse races, and competitions involving men, children, and even slaves. To this day, the Mnarja horse races remain a central tradition.
It was towards the end of the 17th century that the Knights of Malta moved the celebrations to Buskett, their favoured hunting grounds. On this occasion alone, Maltese citizens were granted permission to hunt wild rabbits in the area, giving rise to the enduring tradition of eating fried rabbit on the eve of Mnarja.
This year's official opening will take place at 6pm on 28 June, following the customary decorated cart and carriage parade from Rabat to Buskett.
Beyond the popular exhibitions and competitions featuring fruit, vegetables, rabbits, and horses, this year will also include a showcase of the Maltese dog breed. This tradition began in 1854 under British Governor William Reid, who personally contributed £50 as prize money to encourage participation by Maltese farmers.
In recent years, educational exhibitions for both children and adults have enriched the event. Alongside demonstrations of local crafts, such as cane work and lace-making, a dedicated audio-visual exhibit will be hosted at the National Centre for Viticulture and Oenology.
Naturally, a diverse programme of cultural activities, musical performances, and family-friendly entertainment will further enhance the experience. Expect folkloristic dancing, traditional Maltese "għana" singing, live instrumentals, and traditional games that bring our heritage to life.
No Mnarja celebration would be complete without traditional Maltese food. A wide range of food stalls will serve up local delicacies, satisfying the tastes of both locals and tourists alike.
There will also be an exhibition of modern and vintage agricultural machinery, drawing the attention of farmers and visitors alike, and underlining the evolving nature of our agricultural landscape.
As Minister responsible for agriculture, I cannot but extend my heartfelt thanks to all the farmers and herders participating actively in this year's Mnarja, as well as to those who work year-round for the benefit of the Maltese and Gozitan people.
Mnarja 2025 also represents a clear commitment by the Government to preserve our traditions while offering tangible support to all those involved in agriculture, especially younger generations who are now considering this sector as a viable and meaningful career.
I warmly invite the public to attend this national celebration, not only to enjoy the cultural programme, food, and entertainment, but also to join us in expressing gratitude and appreciation for the dedicated work of our farmers.
In doing so, we ensure that Mnarja remains alive, renewing the traditions of our forebears while allowing the festival to grow and evolve with the changing tastes and values of today's society.
Anton Refalo is Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food and Animal Rights