Malta’s Urban Sports Scene Takes Centre Stage As Festival Returns To Birżebbuġa

The Urban Sports Festival returns to Pretty Bay, Birżebbuġa from 11 to 13 September 2026, bringing together Malta’s urban sports community for a weekend of competition, entertainment, music and activities for all ages.

Since its launch in 2022, the festival has continued to grow while remaining focused on creating opportunities for young people and strengthening Malta’s urban sports scene.

The event has become a platform where participants can develop their skills, with many returning each year as more experienced athletes.

The free public event will feature eight urban sports disciplines, including BMX, skateboarding, scooter, roller skating, parkour, breaking, panna football and 3x3 basketball.

Competitions and open sessions will cater for different ages and ability levels, while visitors can also enjoy children’s activities, bouncy castles, face painting, food stalls, live music and entertainment throughout the weekend.

Competitions will take place mainly between 5pm and 9pm each day, with activities including BMX, skateboarding and scooter competitions, basketball tournaments, parkour challenges, roller skating events and breaking battles.

Open sessions will also give visitors the chance to experience urban sports in a welcoming environment.

The 2026 edition will feature a growing international presence, with professional athletes from countries including Greece, Colombia, Germany and France joining local participants.

International riders and athletes will have the opportunity to compete alongside Malta’s urban sports community, while also promoting Malta through global media content.

The festival will also include international BMX videographer William Garett, who will document the event and create content featuring the participating athletes, helping showcase Malta to international urban sports audiences.

Minister for Youth, Wellbeing and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme Omar Farrugia said that the festival will be an “occasion during the weekend where families can visit Birżebbuġa’s excellent skatepark, where children and young people compete in different sporting disciplines in an atmosphere that is attractive for the whole family.”

“I look forward to seeing young people being given these well-deserved spaces where their wellbeing improves with every passing day.”

President Emeritus Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, Founder and Executive Chairperson of The Malta Trust Foundation said the initiative was encouraging because it placed young people at the centre of national efforts focused on their wellbeing and development.

“When we invest in our young people through sport, we are investing in a stronger, more resilient and more inclusive society. The Urban Sports Festival is a clear example of how passion, talent and active participation can lead to new opportunities and a better future for present and future generations,” she said.

With free entry for everyone, family activities and a diverse programme of competitions and entertainment, the Urban Sports Festival aims to continue its role as an annual meeting point for athletes, young people, families and the wider community.

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