The Valletta 2018 Foundation together with the Valletta Local Council and G7 Events launched the programme for national Christmas and New Year celebrations in Valletta.

Addressing a press conference at Pjazza Teatru Rjal this morning, Valletta 2018 Foundation Chairman Jason Micallef said: “These national events reflect the Foundation’s commitment and the ongoing collaboration with all major public cultural organisations as well as with the private sector and the Valletta Local Council, in preparation for 2018.

As part of the run up to New Year’s Eve, Valletta 2018 is once again collaborating with MCAST’s Art and Design Institute on 3D Architectural Mapping Projection Shows. The full Palace façade at St George’s Square will be transformed with bright visuals and a sweet story as from Tuesday 23^rd December between 5.30pm and 10.30pm. There will be an extra show after the midnight mass on Christmas Eve.

The story takes us to Santa Claus’ workshop where his seven elves process all the letters and make all the toys. This is also the place where one science experiment goes terribly wrong. On Christmas Eve, Clara the Elf produces her latest chemicals which react violently in an experiment causing an explosion. Amid the mess, all the toys come to life! The turn of events is both baffling and exciting.

On New Year’s Eve, St George’s Square will host the main stage where some of Malta’s top local artists, including Red Electrick and the Versatile Brass as well as DJs Pierre Cordina and Clint Bajada, will entertain the crowds.

The New Year will be ushered in with the final 3D Architectural Mapping Projection show coupled with a special countdown and stage pyrotechnics.

At Pjazza Teatru Rjal, DANUSAN will produce an end of year comedy show while a children’s area will be set up in Pjazza de Valette.

Also adressing the media, the Minister for Justice, Culture and Local Governance Owen Bonnici said: “The Cultural sector is contributing directly to tourism as well as the professionalisation of artists in the run-up to 2018”. He noted that these cultural activities are planned with families in mind and will also benefit the economy and tourism.

Tourism Minister Edward Zammit Lewis said: “Tourists visiting the island during the festive season will be able to join in the mass events together with the local community. These activities reflect the government’s vision of events all year round which attract tourists even during the shoulder months.

As a result, the government is continuously incentivising public cultural organisations as well as the private sector to attract quality tourism”.

Valletta Mayor Alexiei Dingli underlined that the ongoing collaboration has resulted in over 50 events which will be taking place in Valletta between Saturday 13^th December and New Year’s Day. He encouraged people coming to Valletta during the holidays to use public transport and alternative means to avoid traffic congestion.

G7 Events Director Owen Spiteri said that rain or shine, the attractive line-up of artists will be performing at Pjazza Teatru Rjal and Pjazza San Ġorġ on New Year’s Eve. The national celebration will be bringing people together in a festive atmosphere in the streets and public areas of Valletta.

Activities are supported by the Ministry for Justice, Culture and Local Governance and the Ministry for Tourism.