With a full calendar of cultural events and so many other things to do, how best to experience the spirit of Valletta 2018 in April?
1. Take time to take in the soul of the city
Malta’s capital city may be the European Capital of Culture 2018, but Valletta is much more than that. The entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that sits on the edge of the Grand Harbour, one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world. A stroll around the city will bring you to squares with fountains or Italian-style cafés with outdoor tables and parasols, impressive architecture, shops, monuments, fortifications, gardens and fantastic views, as life goes on for the people within the city.
2. Attend the pomp and celebration at Il-Festa l-Kbira (The Grand Festival)
Here’s an opportunity to dive headfirst into Maltese culture. Head to Valletta on 6th April to see a one-off grand event which involves the four parish feasts and the grand regatta come together in the biggest traditional festa celebration of all time! Expect four titular statues being carried through the streets, brass bands, music and cheer. On 7th April, the Grand Harbour will come alive with competitive spirit, with one of the most iconic sports events on the island: the regatta.
3. Enjoy curious pleasures for the senses
Valletta 2018 includes a series of special events that include a curious fusion of the arts as well as art forms that stimulate curiosity. How about improvised music to moving cinema images? Or interactive installations that reveal imaginary creatures inside a box that each tells a different story? These playful yet genius presentations will certainly stimulate your senses:
4. Do you enjoy the sound of music?
If it’s only music that’s music to your ears, there’s a wide spectrum of genres to choose from this month. Go for a nine-day marathon of classical music at the International Spring Orchestra Festival 2018 on 6th-14th April. Or a full day electronic music conference and concert with Circuits 2018 on 7th April. You can also drop in at the Beer Cave for a variety of live acts.
5. Get in the action with a spot of competition
Feeling more active and not much like being a spectator all the time? Well, you can get in on the action if you’re a dab hand at table football or Subbuteo. Indulge in some competitive spirit at Sport Table Football: Malta International Open & Grand Prix 2018, an open weekend tournament organised by the Valletta Lions Table Football Club and the Valletta Subbuteo Club. It will include a ladies category, open category, veteran category, U19 Category, U15 Category and U12 category.
Bonus!
Not to be forgotten are the usual attractions: St John's Co-Cathedral, the Auberges of the Knights of Malta, a variety of museums, audio-visual presentations of local history and much more. Valletta will always have much to entertain you!
Ultimately, Malta's magnificent capital is wonderful no matter what, so whatever you do, just enjoy the spirit of Valletta.