Rabat’s historic core is being transformed into a Christmas wonderland for Natalis Notabilis over the next five days.

Over 60 stalls will be set up along the narrow, winding roads of the town, offering traditional German food such as bratwurst (sausage), warm beverages including glühwein (mulled wine) and various artisan products. These will be complemented with Maltese traditional Christmas cuisine, including imbuljuta (a drink made from chestnuts) and qagħaq tal-għasel (honey rings), some of which will come straight from the Franciscan Friary’s oven.

Iconic buildings in the area will open their doors for the public to visit and there will be special attractions set up, including the Nativity Trail at the Franciscan Friary’s secret garden, Santa Claus’s House as well as exhibitions of traditional Maltese crib-making.

One of the main events during Natalis Notabilis is the Malta Christmas Carol Festival, with the participation of St Paul’s Choral Society, Coro Bel Canto and St Monica’s Choir together with soprano Marvic Monreal who will fill the 500-year-old Ta’ Ġieżu church with their harmonious voices.

Various buskers will entertain the public while Christmas carols and glittering lights will add to the atmosphere at Malta’s largest outdoor Christmas market. A short firework display will be held every day, with a grand finale on Saturday at 10pm.

■ Natalis Notabilis opens tonight at 5.30pm and runs until midnight. It continues tomorrow, Friday and Saturday from 5pm to midnight, and on Sunday from 9am to 2pm. The carol festival is taking place on Saturday at 7.30pm. For more information, visit www.natalisnotabilis.org.