Malta International Fireworks Festival Concludes Landmark 25th Anniversary

The Malta International Fireworks Festival has concluded its landmark 25th anniversary edition with a grand finale held at the Grand Harbour in Valletta on 30 April 2026.

Organised by the Malta Tourism Authority, the festival marked 25 years of celebrating Malta’s pyrotechnic tradition and cultural heritage.

This year’s edition featured a record eight teams competing in the pyro-musical competition, with four participants performing on each competition night.

For the first time, the festival included international entrants from outside Europe, including a Canadian company, reflecting the event’s expanding global reach.

In total, around 40 fireworks factories and affiliated societies took part, alongside local band clubs that helped recreate the traditional Maltese festa atmosphere.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Ian Borg praised the festival, saying it “strengthens Malta’s position in international tourism markets” while also preserving “our unique pyrotechnic heritage.”

He described the anniversary edition as a reflection of continued investment in cultural tourism. MTA Chairman Charles Mangion added that the festival is “a powerful expression of our islands’ identity,” while Chief Executive Officer Carlo Micallef highlighted its growing international profile and its role in extending tourism beyond the peak season.

The competition results saw Għaqda tan-Nar San Sebastjan from Ħal Qormi placed first, followed by Saint Andrew’s Band Fireworks Factory from Ħal Luqa in second place, and Kamra tan-Nar San Filep from Ħaż-Żebbuġ in third.

The festival opened on 18 April in Nadur, Gozo, showcasing traditional Maltese fireworks such as beraq and murtali tal-kulur. It attracted thousands of spectators and reinforced Malta’s reputation as a year-round cultural tourism destination.

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