The rain holds off for Birgufest

The rain held off just enough for Vittoriosa to come alive last night with thousands of flickering lights from candles and torches during Birgufest.

Downpours earlier in the day clearly affected attendance, although many hundreds of people still turned up. It was also a logistical nightmare for the organisers, who had to take out their torches and candles in the last minute, to avoid them getting wet.

But the rain did not dampen their enthusiasm, with the candles and fjakkoli being seen practically all over the ancient town - the most notable being candlelit pavaljuni.

The festival also included historic re-eneactments, entertainment, food stalls and exhibitions.