City Gate’s Christmas transformation is the festive touch we've all been hoping for
Visitors attempting to enter Valletta in recent days were left transfixed by the sight that lay ahead of them. With six different attractions set up around the City Gate entrance, the usually airy Tritoni Fountain area was transformed into Santa’s village for the ultimate Christmas touch to the capital.
Named Fairyland in the City, the mini-village’s magical aura can be detected as far out as Sliema, with the top of the ferris wheel visible from most nearby cities.
Another visual stunner is Santa’s Magical Carousel. Brightly lit and boasting intricate designs, it looks like something out of a Mary Poppins set with the bonus of a magical Christmas sprinkle.
What is undoubtedly the attraction that has garnered much public interest, the Penguin’s Ice Rink is a rarity in Malta and a much-welcomed sight. The ice rink caters for both adults and children, with each skating session lasting 50 minutes.
Over the weekend, the ice rink suffered a considerable hiccup with the heavy downpour accumulating in the 900m2 space, effectively turning it into a pond. Today’s warm rays also effected the ice conditions, with organisers postponing the re-opening indeterminately until it is deemed safe for skaters.
Fairyland in the City also hosts Santa's grotto, where children have their pictures taken with the legendary red-suited grandfather as well as receive gifts from him. Additionally, one can also embark on a train-ride with Santa’s elves, but sadly only children under six years can partake. We’ll pretend we’re not upset that.
The magical Christmas village opens everyday from 10am till 10pm, with the event operating on extended hours on Friday and Saturday and closing at 11.30pm. Fairyland in the City will remain in place till Sunday 5th January.
Someone get me some ice skating boots – I’m dying to take a whiz around!