Birgufest

It’s called Birgufest and lasts for three days each October in – no surprises – Birgu, but you might also know it and see it written down as Vittoriosa. The most memorable part of the festival is undoubtedly ‘Birgu by Candle Light’, when the whole town flies in the face of the health and safety sticklers and introduces thousands of naked flames into proceedings. The streets and narrow lanes are deprived of their electric lights and are lit only by candles. It’s a magical sight!

The purpose of the event is to highlight Birgu’s long and interesting past and its fine architecture – hence the re-enactments of past events. Museums stay open late and their entry fees are also reduced during Birgufest. Public buildings and churches open their doors to the public and the streets are decorated to make everything much more jolly!

If you get peckish, there are also a number of food and drink stands strategically placed around the town offering local delicacies, and other more generic culinary staples. Music and art lovers are also catered for with a number of concerts featuring different genres, ranging from classical to modern. You’ll also find various exhibitions set up for people to view.

Past events and attractions that have formed part of Birgufest include a dramatized representation of the ‘Knights’ Armoury’, a life-saving demonstration by the Department of Civil Protection, parades by the Armed Forces of Malta, a display by the Jackson Pipe Band playing traditional Maltese instruments, musical and choral concerts, performances by local and foreign folk groups, theatrical performances, exhibitions of vintage cars, band marches and exhibitions of Maltese crafts.

For history-lovers, the Malta Maritime Museum (housed in the former British Naval Bakery) and the Inquisitor’s Palace (home to the Museum of Ethnography), both of which are operated by Heritage Malta, are open during Birgufest.

The entrance fees are cut to around €2, with children under 16 years entering for free. There is usually also a dual-site ticket costing €3.50 that will get you into both museums. These tickets are valid only during Birgufest.

Birgufest is truly a feast for all the senses, and one that can be enjoyed by all ages. Be warned that parking for a big festival in a small town is far from easy so avoid the stress and look out for the Park and Ride service from various locations close to Birgu. Alternatively, by far the more romantic way of getting there is by using water taxi (dgħajsa) service from the Old Customs House in Valletta. Bus number 2 is the regular service to Birgu but there’s also a special public transport service provided from Birgu to Valletta every 15 minutes during the festival.