The traditional Agricultural and Crafts Exhibition (Wirja tal-Biedja u s-Snajja) is returning to Gozo next weekend, bringing two days of local produce, animals, crafts, music and traditional entertainment to Villa Rundle Gardens.

Taking place on Friday 14th and Saturday 15th August, the annual exhibition forms part of Gozo’s Santa Marija festivities and celebrates the island’s agricultural heritage, craftsmanship and traditions.

Throughout the two days, visitors will be able to browse exhibitions of locally grown fruit and vegetables, poultry, and birds, as well as displays of traditional crafts, artisan works and agricultural machinery.

There will also be food and drink stalls, traditional games, children’s crafts, folk dancing and live music.

Friday’s programme will include a rabbit exhibition and a dog show and competition, before the evening turns to traditional Gozitan entertainment.

From 8pm to 11pm, Ta’ Verna Folk Band will perform folkloristic music, while a host of għana singers will take to the stage, including Danny Vella, Toni l-Pikkolin, Jason in-Nekus, Mario ż-Żebbuġi, Jesmond il-Kalora, Il-Beġieġ, Galloway and Ray il-Basli. They will be accompanied by lead guitarist Johnnie Saliba and his group.

The agricultural competitions will continue on Saturday, with horses, cattle, sheep and goats taking centre stage.

The exhibition will then draw to a close with an official prize-giving ceremony led by Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri.

Friday’s programme will run from 10am until 11pm, while Saturday’s activities will take place from 7am until 1pm.