Photo: Notte Bianca © Valletta 2018/Chris Mangion
As 2018’s European Capital of Culture, Valletta is preparing to showcase its fantastic cultural scene to the world with a diverse programme of arts and entertainment. With a nod towards Malta’s maritime history as a hub of converging cultures, this yearlong celebration in the cosmopolitan capital highlights Valletta’s Mediterranean heritage, whilst also welcoming international performances. Here are five incredible highlights of Valletta 2018’s events programme.
Lookout for Love
Lookout for Love offers a modern reimagining of Malta’s historic coastal watchtowers. Originally built in the 17th century as a way of pre-empting enemy attacks, artist Birdman Hans Langner has partnered with the Valletta 2018 Foundation to repurpose these monuments to create eye-catching works of art. The concept aims to celebrate love and solidarity and is designed to welcome all who arrive in Malta, exploring how art can help spread love and peace throughout the community. Even better, the project is for charity and each artwork will be auctioned in aid of the Puttinu Cares Foundation.
1st May – 28th September 2018
Earth Garden Festival
A highlight of Malta’s early summer calendar, Earth Garden Festival has been wowing music fans with its winning combination of eclectic acts and an eco-friendly mindset for over 10 years. With Valletta celebrating its year as European Capital of Culture, the line up for 2018 is sure to be extra special. Expect a positive, friendly and safe atmosphere and entertainment from more than 35 live acts, performing on a variety of stages including the Enchanted Forest, Electronic Sphere and Musical Playground.
31st May – 3rd June 2018
Valletta Film Festival
Over the course of Valletta Film Festival, the city transforms into a spectacular open-air cinema. One for art-house fans, European-shot feature films, documentaries and shorts are premiered in quirky venues across the capital, like the ruins of an opera house bombed during the Second World War. From coming-of-age films to retrospectives of iconic directors’ works and films made right here in the Maltese archipelago, there is something for everyone. Don’t miss the opening party at the Hastings Gardens on top of Valletta’s fortified walls, where you can rub shoulders with Maltese stars and filmmakers.
8th – 17th June 2018
Malta International Arts Festival
The Malta International Arts festival embraces assorted nationalities and art forms, ranging from theatre and fashion to operatic performances and visual art installations. The festival encourages artistic collaboration across disciplines, presenting both emerging and established artists from Malta and beyond. Hosted in historic venues across Valletta, the innovative works on show will engage you with Malta’s contemporary art scene as well as its rich cultural history.
1st – 16th July 2018
Notte Bianca 2018
This annual event takes on extra special meaning in 2018, and for arts and culture fans, it’ll certainly be a night to remember. The idea is that Valletta’s museums, galleries and cultural institutions remain open late and visitors can enjoy an after-hours visit free of charge. This year, the event will focus on new and digital media, so expect plenty of thought-provoking installations alongside live music, dance, theatre and film.
6th October 2018
