The year 2018 sets the stage for a more vibrant and welcoming capital city. Expect a spectacular line-up of live shows, music.. and a few unexpected touches, too!
The success of any 'European Capital of Culture' is rooted in the passion, imagination, support, dedication, enthusiasm and generosity of its communities. Only together can such a celebration be truly enjoyed, so here is the Valletta 2018’s year-long programme of incredible events, initiatives and activities...
OPENING WEEK OF VALLETTA 2018 – 18th to 21st January
Main festivities to take part on four main squares – St George’s Square, St John’s Square, Castille Square, and the area around the Triton Fountain.
CARNIVAL in Malta & Gozo – 9th to 13th February
One of the oldest local festivities dating back to the Knights of the Order of St John and best known for its impressive handmade carnival floats.
EASTER PROCESSIONS – Good Friday 30th March
Malta’s deeply religious roman-catholic history has led 17 towns to hold the traditional Good Friday procession featuring a number of statues representing a scene from the Passion of the Christ.
MALTA INTERNATIONAL FIREWORKS FESTIVAL – 21st, 27th, 30th April
This spectacle takes place on the Grand Harbour, offering strong competition for other international firework companies.
GRAND HARBOUR MARINA YACHT RALLY – end May
Grand Harbour Marina’s yacht rally leaving the Grand Harbour for Baia Beach Club in the North now in its third consecutive year is well attended, not only amongst berth holders but sponsors such as Bupa healthcare, GVZH Advocates & Equiom corporate services.
VALLETTA PAGEANT OF THE SEAS – 7th June
Set against the majestic backdrop of Valletta’s Grand Harbour, the Pageant of the Seas, hosts a programme of exciting daytime activities –competitive races, visual demonstrations and water acts – and colourful celebrations by night.
TROPHEE BAILLI DE SUFFREN – 9th, 10th, 11th July
This 6oo nautical mile offshore classic race ends in the Grand Harbour following a 10 day trail departing from St Tropez. Participants first stop in Port Rotondo Sardegna, next Palermo Sicily and last Malta, where participating yachts are berthed and hosted by the Royal Malta Yacht Club and Grand Harbour Marina.
MALTA INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL – 20th to 22nd July
This annual musical festival wows not only with its line-up of some of the most renowned international jazz stars but also with its setting at the water’s edge in Grand Harbour. The ideal seat in the festival best enjoyed from on board by far!
VICTORY DAY REGATTA – 8th September
The regatta in the Grand Harbour features the same boats from the times of the Knights of St John ending the Great Siege against the Turks in 1565.
BIRGUFEST – 12th to 14th October
A magical atmosphere is created by the town locals as they are limited to candle light to illuminate the Medieval streets of old centre of Birgu. The marina waterfront comes alive as throngs of people from all over the island visit to enjoy this festival; a variety of musical concerts, exhibitions & local food.
ROLEX MIDDLE SEA RACE – 21st to 27th October
One of the most popular offshore races in the world will start it’s 39th edition in Grand Harbour on the 21st in the morning, with an estimated crowd of over 100 yachts participating from all over the world coming from as far as Australia. Grand Harbour Marina offers yacht berths for the participating maxi yachts and therefore a lovely attraction for sailing enthusiasts.
CLOSING OF VALLETTA 2018 – 15th December in St. George’s Square Valletta
Valletta 2018’s Closing Spectacle is all about celebrating community, life and culture while forging new friendships.
To book a yacht berth at Grand Harbour Marina, click here.