Valletta 2018 is here!

The European Capital of Culture year ushers in an exciting celebration that’s rooted in the unique heritage of the Maltese Islands. Valletta 2018 is an islandwide festa that’s set to unlock everyone’s imagination; it’s a year packed with over 400 events that invites everyone to discover, enjoy and create culture together.

Throughout the year, Valletta 2018 will explore the creative past, present and future of the Maltese Islands thanks to a wide and accessible programme of creative events and initiatives. From internationally renowned performances, established festivals and activities for the whole family, to community outreach projects, creative workshops, and platforms for emerging talent, the year 2018 holds something for everybody!

This January, everyone is invited to celebrate the launch of Valletta 2018 with the spectacular displays that make up FOUR SQUARES and a treasure-trove of activities set to unfold during OPENING WEEK.

Four Squares - the Official Opening Celebration of Valletta 2018

20 January 2018 - 19:00 onwards

Don’t miss this spectacular launch party that’s unlike anything ever seen on the Islands!

Everyone is invited to experience the music, dance and inspiring performances that are set to light up four main squares in Valletta: Triton Square, St George’s Square, St John’s Square, and Castille Square.

Each square hosts a twenty-minute kick off show at 19:00, with encores every hour, on the hour, up until 23:00.

A massive concert/after party organised by Tenishia (Joven Grech) and the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra will close the celebrations in St George’s Square. For more information about Four Squares visit: www.valletta2018.org

Valletta 20198 Opening Week

14-21 January 2018 Across Valletta

This week-long festival, which involves several communities in Valletta, explores the culture, traditions and hidden gems of our beloved Valletta.

Opening Week’s got a vast programme packed with performances, exhibitions, music and much more. Highlights include performances by local bands Brodu, Mistura, and the acoustic duo known as Xarulù, stand-up comedy by Chris Dingli and Philip Leone-Ganado, artistic interventions by Teatru Triptiku, open days and exhibitions that uncover Valletta’s little-known treasures, and a host of activities for children and young people.

The festival’s varied themes – Festa, Pop-up, Music & Theatre, Children & Young People, Sport and History – offer a 360-degree exploration of Valletta that ensures many fun-filled outings for family, friends and curious visitors in the city. For a full list of events visit: www.valletta2018.org

Discover the Valletta 2018 Cultural Programme

January’s week-long celebration is just the beginning of this spectacular festa.

The Valletta 2018 Cultural Programme is hosting a whole year’s worth of accessible events devoted to exploring and celebrating contemporary life on the Maltese Islands.

With six programme strands to explore – Community, Visual Arts & Design, Children & Young People, Performance, Film & Opera, Music, and City Highlights – the year 2018 holds something for everybody!

Plan your very own year in culture by visiting www.valletta2018.org or download the Valletta 2018 app. The information in this article was correct at the time of going to print. Valletta 2018 reserves the right to amend dates and other event details at any time.