Fireworks Spectacular! Malta’s biggest annual pyrotechnic display to be held in Mqabba next week
The Santa Marija fireworks of Mqabba have a stellar international track record for their brilliant displays of light
The feast of Santa Marija on the 15th of August is often synonymous with the fireworks display that each village presents to celebrate the feast, particularly those of the village of Mqabba. This year will be no different, with the event named ‘Fireworks Spectacular’ taking place on the 14th of August, on the eve of the festa.
John Farrugia
The fireworks tradition in Mqabba dates back to the 19th century and has evolved over the years to become a world-renowned attraction. Indeed, the Santa Marija fireworks of Mqabba have an impressive track record, having won multiple international competitions, including the first Malta International Fireworks Festival in 2006, the Caput Lucis World Championships in Rome in 2007 and the National Ground Fireworks Festival in 2010, among other national recognitions.
This year’s edition of Fireworks Spectacular will be a five-part affair – the first and second of which will feature thousands of traditional Maltese ‘beraq’ fireworks in synchronisation to music, aptly titled ‘Pyro Thunder Extreme’. The third part is called ‘The Tower of Light’, in which thousands of fireworks are let off from a high steel structure over 50 metres high, giving a different dimension to this display – undoubtedly providing an exciting achievement to witness.
The Grand Finale will follow, with more fireworks synchronised to music with a variety of large shells providing a spectacular display visible across the island. Finally, the ground fireworks, known as ‘irdieden’ in Maltese, will get their moment to shine (and sparkle), in a moment where engineering and artistry combine to create some gorgeous visuals.
Fireworks Spectacular will commence at 9:30pm at Triq il-Konvoj ta’ Santa Marija (Mqabba By-pass). Seating will be available along this road, and bookings can be made online. For more information, visit the Society Santa Marija Mqabba or the St Mary Fireworks Mqabba Facebook pages.
Every year, the event attracts thousands of locals and tourists who gather to witness the mesmerising display, so make sure to get a good viewing spot!
Where will you be watching the Santa Marija fireworks from this year?