One of Malta’s most anticipated annual events, Notte Bianca, is back! Organised by Festivals Malta, this vibrant arts and culture festival transforms Valletta into a lively hub of performances, exhibitions, and celebrations. This year’s event takes place on the first Saturday of October, lighting up the city with an unforgettable night full of entertainment and artistic expression. Best of all – it’s completely free and open to the public!

A Night of Endless Possibilities

From 4pm onwards, the streets of Valletta will come alive with a series of performances and activities suitable for all ages and interests. The city’s streets, piazzas, churches, and museums will become the stage for a variety of performances ranging from dance and music to theatre and visual arts. Whether you’re into live concerts, immersive theatre, or interactive installations, Notte Bianca offers something for everyone. Cafés and restaurants will also extend their opening hours, so you can enjoy the bustling atmosphere well into the night.

Getting There: Travel Smart

With thousands of visitors flocking to Valletta for Notte Bianca, it’s highly recommended to use public transport. Special extended services will be available for the event, including buses and the Valletta Ferries from Sliema and the Three Cities. If you prefer to drive, consider using the park-and-ride services to avoid traffic congestion and parking challenges in the city.

Explore The Routes

Notte Bianca 2024 will feature several distinct routes, each offering a unique cultural experience. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect:

• Alternative Route: A mix of local favorites, edgy installations, and expressive performances. The highlight will be a vibrant end-of-summer concert at Laparelli Gardens – perfect for free spirits who love to dance the night away.
• Classic Route: For lovers of classical music, this route is set in Valletta’s stunning architectural landmarks. Experience creative performances that honor the masters of classical music in a whole new way.
• Dance Route: Celebrate the beauty of movement with performances that showcase various dance disciplines, blending cultures and diversity in a spectacular show.
• Kids Route: Families will love the magical and entertaining projects along this route, designed to captivate young minds and keep the little ones smiling all night long.
• Theatre Route: Offering everything from improvisational street theatre to comedic plays, this route is sure to keep theatre enthusiasts laughing and entertained.
• Red Route: Highlighting sensual performances and adult themes, the Red Route promises to tantalize the senses with its daring projects. Parental guidance is advised.
• Music Route: From jazz and blues to rock and pop, the Music Route will feature performances at every corner. Discover live music to suit all tastes as Valletta’s streets echo with melodies.

Event Highlights

This year’s Notte Bianca has something for everyone, including exciting performances for both kids and adults.

• For Kids: Two standout performances include Walk the Plank at Upper Barrakka Gardens, an interactive show that explores Malta’s seafaring past, and The Great Big Book Adventure at the National Library, which promises to inspire a love of reading through a thrilling tale of good versus evil.
• For Mature Audiences: The Red Route will host provocative performances such as Il-Burdell ġo Strada Stretta, an interactive dance show by MOVEO Dance Company. Theatre lovers can enjoy raunchy and hilarious productions like Politically Incorrect and In-Nanna Ġenoveffa.
• For Theatre Lovers: Highlights include Spirtu at Our Lady of Pilar Church, where the ghosts of Valletta’s past come to life, and Fil-Gwerra M’Hemmx Rebbieħa at Sala San Duminku, a moving musical about the horrors of war. Don’t miss The Primitals at Teatru Manoel, an a cappella comedy about a quirky tribal group.
• For Dance Lovers: Spectacular dance performances include L-Ispanjol Awtentiku at the National Museum of Archaeology, Elements through Dance at Valletta Campus Theatre, and a grand show at St. George’s Square featuring YADA Dance Company alongside Brass House Unit.
• For Music Lovers: From pop to rock, the music performances are not to be missed. Check out Il-Palk tan-Niżla for performances by Lyndsay and Band, Chellcy Reitsma Band, and Drakard. Fans of rock music can enjoy the return of the Rock Stage at City Theatre, featuring bands like Grotium, Poison Cherry, and Lord Adder. For a more classical experience, visit the Classic Route or enjoy the massive Chasing Sunsets party at Laparelli Gardens, featuring top DJs.

Don’t Miss Out!

With so much to offer, Notte Bianca 2024 promises to be an unforgettable night filled with music, dance, theatre, and art in every corner of Valletta. For more information on the event and a full programme of activities, visit festivals.mt/nb.

Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and head to Valletta for a night you’ll never forget!

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