The northern town of Mellieħa comes alive in a cultural celebration between July 29 and 31 titled Mellieħa Nights.

Friday’s highlight is a concert by The Beaters, a Beatles Tribute Band. The free event starts at 7pm in the parish square.

On Saturday and Sunday, the main roads and squares in Mellieħa will be pedestrianised, with a varied programme of events ranging from art, to music, to animation for children, sports and food all on offer. The main roads will be set up with tables and chairs for patrons of the various Mellieħa restaurants to be able to dine al fresco without missing out on the entertainment being offered.

Various stages will be set up at this year’s event focusing independently on folk, classical rock, younger talent and jazz. On the main stage, top local musicians will be participating, including the Paul Abela Big Band, The Fourth Fret, Brooke and Band, and The Crowns.

Local and international artists will exhibit their works and paintings in front of the crowds with an art exhibition of local artists, including John Vic Borg, Stephen Grima, Gilbert Fenech, on display in the Marian Sanctuary’s courtyard. The Sanctuary will also host choral concerts. Also open and offering guided tours as well as an exhibition are the World War II shelters.

This year’s event will also feature static car and motorcycle displays, drifting races and an off-roading show. Local high-end cars as well as old trucks and fully restored old traditional Maltese buses can all be admired.

A free park and ride service will be available on all three days from the ex-Belleview area from 7pm to 11pm.

Mellieħa Nights is organised by the Mellieħa local council and sees the support of the Malta Tourism Authority and the Parliamentary Secretariat for Local Government, together with a number of corporate sponsors.

For more information about the programme of events, visit the Mellieħa Local Council’s website www.mellieha.gov.mt or the council’s Facebook page.