Carnival is an age-old tradition that is celebrated across the world, with celebrations known for their colour, vibrant atmosphere, as well as satire. If you were wondering why carnival is still one of the most celebrated cultural events in Malta, keep on reading!

1. A part of our history

Some might be surprised to found out that carnival in Malta can actually be traced back to the early 1400s, where we find evidence of the Università issuing directives about the selling price of meat during carnival. However, it definitely gained momentum thanks to the Order of the Knights of St. John.

For the Knights, carnival was all about tournaments and pageants, which they gladly entered to show off their skills and strength. As years went by, the events evolved and we can say that from then onwards, carnival was celebrated by all sectors of society: the nobility would put on their finest clothes and attend masked balls, while common people took to the streets dressed up in home-made costumes and masks.

Fun fact: It was around 1560 that floats were introduced, only these weren’t seen cruising on land, instead they were actual decorated ships of the Order!

2. Floats & Dancers

There’s no doubt that for both locals and tourists, the main attraction would be the large and brightly coloured floats cruising through the streets of Floriana and Valletta. Over the years, the construction of these massive floats has turned into a full-scale competition, with several teams, referred to as ‘companies’, from all over Malta working tirelessly to prepare, design, and construct complex and brightly coloured floats made of cardboard and papier-mâché. The floats assert their presence not only visually, but also audibly, through their powerful integrated sound systems, sometimes with a DJ spinning a set of turntables on the float itself!

As with all Carnivals all over the world, dancing is a part of the package! Very often, the companies that build floats also have their own dancers. You’ll see these dancers dressed in elaborate and, more often than not, hand-made costumes! These individuals spend hours upon hours practising their dance routine to win the dance competition. Prizes are awarded for the best artistic dances, costumes, floats and grotesque masks.

3. Costumes galore

No doubt, one of the best things about Carnival is the costumes! Some people go all-out and opt for super fancy and intricate costumes in the hopes they will win a prize while others just dress up for the fun of it! You can choose to be whoever or whatever you want. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try to make your own costume! If that sounds like too much work, there are plenty of costume shops dotted around the island.

4. The Satire

Carnival in Malta used to be celebrated mainly in Valletta, but nowadays carnival activities have extended into other localities around the island, in fact, several ‘spontaneous’ carnivals in more remote villages have gained popularity. The Nadur Carnival has set itself apart for its more grotesque themes, including ghost costumes, cross-dressing, dressing up as political figures and even dressing up as half-clothed clergy folk. Satire is key! This event isn’t organised by any Carnival committee and is a spontaneous celebration which feels somewhat like a big street party.

5. The Food

Like any other major event or festivity, there are specific treats associated with Carnival! These include the traditional carnival cake, known as ‘Prinjolata’ known for its white dome-like shape. The cake is made by combining glace cherries, citrus peel, and pine nuts with either sponge cake, madeira cake, or crushed biscuits. The assembled cake is usually decorated with meringue, cream, or frosting, and last but not least, a cherry on top (literally)!

Then there’s the famous ‘Perlini’, which are sugar coated almonds that often come in a variety of pastel colours.

A Final Word for Carnival 2022

Although between 25 February and 1 March, only an abridged Carnival programme will be held due to the COVID-19 restrictions, the colourful floats and dancers will return to the streets of Valletta once more between 20 and 22 May! So hold tight and - “Viva Viva l-Karnival!”