Festivities which have become an essential part of carnival will be taking place in Floriana and Valletta, with St George’s Square being the main focus of activity.
These events include the grand défilé as well as competitions for floats and dancing companies. Audiences can also expect new elements which will be introduced in this year’s calendar. One such event will take place on Sunday afternoon at 2.30pm, when the show in St George’s Square will be accompanied by a live marching band. This event is being reintroduced to the festivities after an absence of 20 years.
On Saturday evening, festivities will continue into the night, giving merry-makers the opportunity to keep on celebrating. On Tuesday, the grand défilé will come to a close at 9.30pm. Other events linked to this national celebration will include an exhibition of miniature candy floats, which will also be the subject of a competition between confectioners and hotels. This exhibition can be viewed at Pjazza Teatru Rjal from today to Tuesday.
Seating will be available for events at St George’s Square. Tickets can be purchased from www.ticketline.com.mt. The event will be covered live on TVM on Saturday morning, Sunday afternoon and Tuesday evening, giving those who cannot make it to Valletta the opportunity to get a glimpse of the festive and colourful atmosphere from home.
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A day of colours, fun and entertainment is being held by the Naxxar local council at the swings in September 21 Avenue on Sunday from 9am onwards.
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Ta’ Xbiex local council is organising the second edition of Carnival at the Marina, on Monday, from 6pm onwards in the Ta’ Xbiex Yacht Marina carpark.
Carnival mini-floats, grotesque masks, over 13 dance companies, singers, costume competitions, among other surprises, are many of the features characterising an event bringing together people of all ages in a unique carnival village, in the heart of the Yacht Marina.
Entrance is free.
Calendar of events
Today
6pm: Opening ceremony of Malta Carnival 2016 activities at Pjazza Teatru Rjal, Valletta.
Tomorrow
5.30pm: Costume parade along Republic Street, Valletta followed by dancing competitons in St George’s Square and carnival défilé consisting of the King Carnival float, Valletta 18 float, satiric floats and Section A companies in costumes on floats.
Saturday
9.30am: Children’s carnival at St George’s Square, Valletta.
5.30pm: Dancing competition and grand défilé performance at St George’s Square, Valletta.
Various activities will be held in Valletta throughout the day including the Qarċilla representation in St John’s Square, Valletta.
Sunday
10am: Carnival band parade in High Street, Ħamrun.
1pm: Carnival floats parade at Castille Place, Valletta. Parade will proceed along Merchants Street to St George’s Square and then along Republic Street.
3pm: Special Sunday afternoon carnival grand show at St George’s Square, Valletta.
Monday
10am: Dancing schools carnival parade followed by a dancing show at St George’s Square, Valletta.
4pm: Dancing competion programme followed by the grand défilé at St George’s Square, Valletta.
Tuesday
10am: Dancing schools carnival parade followed by a dancing show at Pjazza Teatru Rjal, Valletta.
6pm: Grand finale in St Anne’s Street with the participation of carnival bands, floats and general merriment.