The NGO ‘Ghaqda Kazini tal-Banda’ issued a statement in which it announced the formation of a group dedicated to initiate discussions towards the return of feasts by 2022. This group is set to create a concrete road map so as to reignite the cultural phenomenon of village feasts starting 1st January 2022. The members are directly involved in the organisation of feasts which include committees who work on band clubs, construction and ‘Socjetajiet tal-Banda’.
The group’s aim is to have a holistic plan ready and presented to the health authorities by the end of September. This will show the authorities how this cultural aspect of Malta can continue without endangering the lives of people given the COVID-19 pandemic. The organisation also encouraged the authorities to give notice to the several letters sent throughout the past months which have as of yet gone unanswered.
Elsewhere, Roberta Metsola also spoke about Malta’s festivities, saying that they distinguish us and make us who we are. Feasts are ‘part of our identity and culture, a manifestation of the religious beliefs of many.’ Involving thousands of volunteers and dedicated youth, these iconic feasts are proof of Malta’s communities’ greatest characteristics. Highlighting the two year absence of such feasts due to COVID-19, Metsola hopes to see the return of such celebrations next year.
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Photo Source: InterContinental Malta, Roberta Metsola FB