Their ain't no party like a Maltese Party - sorry, Kid Rock.
Credit: Malta.com
Before we get into that, we need to talk about Catholicism - right, I know two completely different things - or are they?
Unlike America, in Malta there is no such thing as separation of Church and State. The two are very much intertwined. Each village has their own patron saint, and they have a large feast in their honor each year. Picture a large carnival for at least a week, it's crazy, really! With lots of food trucks, face painting and merchants selling their homemade goods.
Streetview of Haz-Zebbug Credit: Ami Z
Fire works before they go off Credit: Ami Z
These festas have the most amazing fireworks, and have the tradition of the strongest men in the village carrying around the patron saint of their village - which is a very high honor. The fireworks are a pyro's dream - as Malta does not have any type of restrictions on fireworks and they can get very creative as well as sometimes dangerous.
My favorite part of the festa is seeing how the village comes together, and how people from other villages share in this tradition. It's something we in the U.S could really learn from is the community togetherness, even if it is just for one week!
This looks and sounds like so much fun! The 4th of July is always my favorite time of year because of the fireworks!
ReplyDeleteYou are right, who doesn't love a good party! I assume Mardi Gras, or Carnival, is a big party in Malta?
ReplyDeleteCarnival is huge Mark.
DeleteLooks like fun!
ReplyDeleteEveryone loves a good party! It looks like a lot of fun. I also think it would be nice to have something like this in the U.S. to bring everyone together!
ReplyDeleteI am originally from Mexico and this blog brought me great memories. Majority of Mexicans are catholic and Mexicans are also known for throwing amazing religious and patriotic village parties. You are right, the best part about the fiestas is how the village comes together. We put aside our differences to become one. I also agree that we need more of that in the United States.
ReplyDeleteThis looks like a lot of fun. I wish I could go.
ReplyDelete