On Thursday 3rd July, the beautiful Verdala Palace in Girgenti will once again host the much-anticipated event, ‘A Night at the Palace’.

This year’s edition will feature the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of Maestro Aurelio Belli, accompanied by popular vocalists Amber, Richard Edwards, and Gloriana Arpa Belli. Together, they will perform iconic music from celebrated films and musicals, including Titanic, Gladiator, Skyfall, The Lion King, and many more.

During a press conference held at the Office of the Prime Minister, Dr Lydia Abela, wife of the Prime Minister, announced that this year’s proceeds will go towards a Special Olympics Malta health project focused on mental well-being. Specifically, funds will support the ‘Strong Minds’ programme, a training tool designed to equip athletes with emotional and psychological skills to better adapt to new or challenging situations.

“Sporting competitions often require athletes to spend extended periods away from home, which can cause significant mental strain,” Dr Abela noted. “Like all of us, athletes can experience anxiety whether during competitions or in everyday life.”

Dr Abela encouraged the public to attend this special musical celebration, set against the stunning backdrop of the Girgenti Palace, and to support a cause that reflects Malta’s growing commitment to mental health and community well-being. “Small changes,” she added, “can have a big impact not only on individuals but on their families too.”

Vanessa Mangion, CEO of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, expressed pride in the orchestra’s participation, highlighting its ongoing dedication to contributing to society through philanthropic efforts.

“This performance presents a beautiful repertoire that will appeal to a wide audience,” she said.

Maestro Aurelio Belli added that the evening’s programme will include a blend of symphonic, classical, and rock arrangements a testament to the orchestra’s versatility and commitment to delivering powerful, emotive performances.

Tickets are free of charge and available from anightatthepalace.com.

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This July, the Upper Barrakka Gardens will be transformed into a vibrant hub of Maltese culinary culture as the Valletta Local Food Festival returns for a special edition, taking place from Friday 4th to Sunday 6th July 2025.

“This festival is a celebration of local identity and creativity,” said Minister for Culture, Owen Bonnici. “It brings people together to enjoy food and culture in the heart of the capital, while supporting our local economy.”

This year’s festival will feature over 25 local producers, chefs, and food artisans, offering a rich variety of traditional and contemporary Maltese food and drink. Visitors can expect everything from fresh and fried ġbejniet, sheep’s milk, bigilla, snails, and honey, to mazzola (fried fish), tamal pies, tripe, traditional ħobż biż-żejt, jams, and chutneys.

There will also be plenty of innovation on show, with fig-infused sweets, chocolate-filled kannoli, flavoured salts, and artisanal liqueurs among the highlights.

Agriculture Minister Anton Refalo emphasised the event’s role in sustaining Malta’s farming and culinary traditions. “We remain committed to preserving our agricultural heritage and securing a sustainable future for our local producers.”

A standout feature of the festival will be a live cooking station led by Chef Charles Bone, offering daily demonstrations using fresh local ingredients with a strong focus on Maltese fish and sustainable cooking practices.

The festival’s participants include notable names such as Benna, San Niklaw Farm, the Maltese Goat and Sheep Cooperative, the Malta Beekeepers’ Association, Lucky Star Bakery, and Flavours of Gozo, alongside many others contributing to the celebration of Maltese produce.

Complementing the food offering is an entertaining line-up of live music, with performances from Sarah Bonnici, Tikka Banda, Klinsmann Trio, and The Dropout DJ Brass Band, featuring special appearances by Olivia Lewis, Mike Spiteri, Neville Refalo, and Ritienne.

The Valletta Local Food Festival 2025 is free to attend and open to everyone, providing a wonderful opportunity to savour the tastes, sounds, and community spirit of Malta in one of the capital’s most iconic locations.