Wafts of cinnamon lace the breeze; twinkling lights sparkle on street corners or drape themselves on foliage; and the familiar lull of carol singing pulls you back to that moment when you were five, too excited to sleep on the eve of 25th December. Yes, it’s beginning to smell, look, and feel a lot like Christmas. And, if you relish the warmth this time of year brings to every day, you'll certainly find yourself at home at the Valletta Waterfront this season.

This is because starting from tomorrow, 1st December, the promenade at the foot of the capital – with its stream of restaurants and bars; its open vista over the historic Grand Harbour and family-friendly spaces – is displaying its vibrant Christmas spirit with a mix of décor, music, food and activities designed to get even the Grinches out there smiling (hopefully!). 

A 35-foot Christmas tree – the height of two giraffes standing on top of each other (imagine that if you can!) - will form a central part of the promenade’s transformation into a festive favourite. Father Christmas will also be there, hard at work in Santa’s house and magical snow garden, furiously prepping gifts in time for the holidays, and welcoming all those who want a couple of snaps with him and his elves. You can also post your gift wish list in a letterbox for him up until 20th December – he has promised to reply to everyone! (yes, even you, mum). 

The promenade will be awash with entertainment: balloon modelling, face painting, crafts, games, colouring-in, meet & greets with everyone’s favourite characters, puppet shows and bouncy castles are just some of the activities promising to deliver a great Christmas. And, unlike many of the trappings of the festive season, attendance is free, with events lined up even during the kids’ school holidays. 

For more information, visit here. Children’s activities will also be taking place from 26th December to 28th December between 12:30pm and 4:30pm.