Floriana To Host Mechanised Fireworks Festival This April
During a press conference, the Floriana Local Council announced the initial details of this year’s National Festival of Mechanised Ground Fireworks, which will take place on 18 April at Pjazza San Publju on the Floriana Granaries.
The event marks the 17th edition of the Festival and remains one of the most anticipated dates in Malta’s pyrotechnic calendar.
In his opening address, Mayor Nigel Holland explained that this year’s edition will adopt a slightly revised format, with more direct organisation by the Kunsill Lokali tal-Floriana.
He also thanked the Malta Tourism Authority for its continued assistance and logistical support. The Mayor noted that each edition of the Festival has aimed to provide fireworks factories with a national platform on which to present their finest mechanised ground fireworks.
He said the Council will continue investing time, energy and resources to ensure the event grows in both quality and reputation, while strengthening technical and logistical standards so that participants are given the best possible conditions to showcase their work.
Deputy Mayor James Aaron Ellul highlighted the cultural and historical importance of pyrotechnics in Malta, describing the Maltese as pioneers in both mechanised and traditional fireworks.
He called for increased support from governmental and cultural entities, noting that funding allocated to Local Councils has remained unchanged despite rising organisational costs, particularly those linked to raw materials used by fireworks associations.
He thanked the Malta Pyrotechnic Association for its recent collaboration and expressed appreciation for the volunteers who sustain the art form. Although the Festival is competitive, he said it continues to foster unity and shared creativity among participants.
Representatives Keith Dingli and Stanley Azzopardi explained that the Festival will feature five categories of mechanised wheels: Chain, Universal, 2D, 3D and Colour Fountains.
The first four categories focus on mechanisms ignited through gas effects and rotated by gunpowder fountains, while the fifth highlights the visual impact of colour fountains.
Entries will be judged on design, pyrotechnic quality, mechanical craftsmanship and the precision of execution according to the submitted plan.
Organisers also outlined strict procedures, including limits on participants, a ballot system for category assignment and ignition order, and comprehensive safety and legal requirements.
A jury composed of Maltese and foreign experts will assess both installation and performance, with provisions in place to ensure transparency and fairness throughout the competition.
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