Maltese festi are known for their sheer magnificence, showing off grand street decorations, stunning firework displays, and of course, delicious food.

Having said that, nothing quite screams ‘festa’ like the beloved marc brijuz (joyous march) that villages across the islands organise as part of their annual celebrations.

During these events, people from all backgrounds gather in their band club-themed shirt to dance, drink, and sing along to the tunes the marching band would be playing.

But it wasn’t always like this...

A page by the name of ‘Zurrieq and its Surrondings’ shared quite the photo of a marc brijuz held in 1945, showing just how differently this event was celebrated back in the day.

The Zurrieq feast pictured, which is dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, is nowadays especially known and sought after for its extremly fun band marches.

However, the photo in question shows how only men would take part in and enjoy said event.

It was not common for women to take part back in marches back then. Instead, they’d witness the action from the sidelines.

Most, if not all, of the men in attendance are pictured wearing pretty much the same outfit – a white, short-sleeved shirt and dark trousers.

Have you ever been to the Zurrieq feast?

Facebook/Iz-Zurrieq u l-madwar