On the Valletta Cultural Agency’s fifth anniversary, the Minister for National Heritage, Arts, and Local Government Owen Bonnici commended the agency’s efforts describing them as integral to the cultural legacy of the Valletta 2018 Foundation. He emphasised that culture has played a pivotal role in driving the ongoing cultural, social, and economic regeneration of Valletta.
The Valletta Cultural Agency was established as a legacy of the Valletta 2018 Foundation, creating an an annual Cultural Programme which furthers its mission to curate cultural events and revive Valletta’s social and economic landscape.
Since its inception five years ago, the Valletta Cultural Agency has received acclaim for its innovative initiatives. Notably, the Valletta Design Cluster, housed in the historic il-Biċċerija l-Antika area, won the prestigious Malta Architecture and Spatial Planning Awards and the Premio Concorso City Brand and Tourism Landscape Award from Paysage Topscape, among other national and international awards.
The dynamic events organised by the Valletta Cultural Agency, which never fail to attract substantial crowds to the city, include the Valletta Green Festival, the Valletta Pageant of the Seas, Opera in the Capital, the Valletta Local Food Festival, Christmas in the Capital, and the National New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Valletta Cultural Agency Chairman Jason Micallef emphasised, “We take pride in our pivotal role in the city’s regeneration. Through these events and many more, we continue to breathe life into our beloved capital, dear to us Maltese and Gozitans.”
Valletta Cultural Agency CEO Catherine Tabone, elaborated on the diverse programme offerings, stating, “Our programme is as rich as can be, encompassing visual art exhibitions, concerts of varying sizes, family-friendly events, workshops, and collaborations with both local and international artists.”
On the occasion of the maltabiennale.art 2024, the Valletta Cultural Agency is commemorating Ray Mahoney, a luminary in Maltese music and poetry, with a concert taking place on the 28th April.
This year marks the 10th edition of the much-anticipated Valletta Green Festival, transforming St George’s Square into a lush garden oasis from the 3rd until the 12th May.
On the 22nd June, the Valletta Pageant of the Seas returns for its fifth edition, captivating audiences with a large-scale spectacle at the Grand Harbour. This biennial event, a hallmark of the city, showcases various sea activities and a fireworks display, drawing thousands of attendees.
Opera in the Capital makes a return on the 30th August in St George’s Square, featuring Maltese tenors and singers of international acclaim, promising an evening of musical splendour.
Between the 17th and 19th October, the Valletta Local Food Festival returns for its third consecutive year, celebrating Maltese culinary heritage with local chefs and artisans offering delectable delights and culinary demonstrations.
As December approaches, the city comes alive with festive cheer, highlighted by the beloved Christmas activities and the New Year’s Eve celebrations in St George’s Square. These longstanding traditions, now in their 11th year, immerse visitors in the holiday spirit while invigorating the capital city.
For more information about the Valletta Cultural Agency and its Cultural Programme, visit vca.gov.mt/mt/events and the Agency’s Facebook page.
