Photo: Darrin Zammit Lupi

Carnival yesterday proved to be a crowd puller with one of the enthusiasts saying that, at times, dancers even had problems performing in front of the floats.

The weather was not as fine as on Saturday but many still made it to Valletta, the young, especially, clad in colourful costumes.

An enthusiast from the Cicco Carnival Company said the turnout was very positive this year, noting that in some areas of the capital the crowds were so big that it was difficult for dancers to perform in front of the floats.

He said the weather and the fact that it was not so windy had definitely helped, especially after concerns on Friday that strong winds, forecast for the weekend, could damage the floats.

Carnival festivities continue in Valletta today and come to a close tomorrow with the grand defilé.

Float-makers and carnival groups had to be on their best behaviour this year as the authorities continuously monitored their every move to ensure they followed health and safety regulations.

Organisers said this year they were asked to upgrade their safety precautions, with the police carrying out regular breathalyser tests and requesting to see the driving licences of those at the wheel of tractors pulling the floats.