Knights by candlelight in Vittoriosa

Over 5,000 candles will flicker in the narrow streets of Vittoriosa on October 7, as the walled city returns to the epoch of the Knights of St John and their jousting competitions.

The event, Birgu By Candlelight, starts at 7 p.m. with the theme focused on carnival during the time of the knights, in what promises to be one of the highlights of the third Historic Cities Festival.

The festival, which will run between October 5 and 15, also features a spectacular re-enactment of King Roger II's entry into Mdina in 1127, taking place on October 8 at 2 p.m.

The festival was launched yesterday by Tony Bezzina, chairman of the events committee within the Culture Ministry, during a press conference held at the Manoel Theatre courtyard.

The festival kicks off on October 5 at noon with an animation at Mdina Bastions provided by the UK medieval re-enactment group Swords of Dumnonia who, with their authentic weapons, will give demonstrations of mediaeval combat.

A group of falconers from Slovakia will also be giving demonstrations on falconry. Other events such as guided tours through Fort St Angelo, musical concerts in Vittoriosa and Valletta, as well as numerous theatrical performances at the Manoel Theatre and MITP theatre will form part of this year's rich programme.

Another re-enactment involves the laying down of the foundation stone of Valletta, which will take place on October 15 at 10 a.m. The anticipated Malta Military Tattoo will be held between October 13-15 in St George's Square, Valletta. Participating in this year's Tattoo will be numerous military and other bands from the UK, Italy, Malta and Egypt. An interesting addition is a troupe of whirling dervishes from Egypt.

Another highlight is Notte Bianca - Lejl Imdawwal which will run on the night of October 14 right through to the early hours of the morning. A first to Malta, this event will be the focus of a celebration of arts and culture. Notte Bianca is being organised by the Malta Council for Culture and the Arts.