The National Archives of Malta has delighted history enthusiasts by sharing a rare throwback video on social media, offering a glimpse into the island’s grand celebrations of the Royal Silver Jubilee in 1935. The video commemorates the 90th anniversary of the festivities marking King George V’s 25th year on the British throne.

Held between the 5th and 12th May of 1935, the celebrations transformed Malta into a stage of national pride and imperial pageantry. Streets were festooned with decorations as people from all walks of life took part in an extraordinary week of events. The video showcases military parades and band performances, children’s parties, garden soirees, and elegant receptions.

A sense of generosity and community spirit also shines through - footage includes scenes of food and cigarettes being distributed to the poor, and joyous scout jamborees filled with youthful energy. Nighttime celebrations glowed with illuminated churches, a mesmerising searchlight display, and roaring bonfires.

Other highlights included a state dinner, a solemn Te Deum, vibrant film screenings, a thrilling water carnival, and spirited sporting events such as rallies and horse races. The island’s festive atmosphere was unmistakable, captured vividly in the video’s black-and-white frames.

This archival footage offers a powerful reminder of Malta’s role in Britain’s imperial past and the cultural life of the 1930s.

Do you enjoy throwback videos like this one?