Malta Fireworks Festival

Fireworks have a long and illustrious history in Malta. Pyrotechnics has a long history in Malta, dating back to the Knights of St John's Order. The Order, which was conventual, aristocratic, and military, developed spectacular pyrotechnic displays to commemorate the most important feasts. On momentous events, such as the election of a Grand Master or a Pope, or the birth of a prince, such firework displays were a statement of joy.

Cannon and musket fire must have inspired the pyrotechnics. The musketeers' salute, the feu de joie, resulted in a festive reception for every dignitary. The musketterija evolved from this, and is now a series of hundreds of cracker explosions fired in fast succession. These are attached to a string that is strung across the roof of a church or other large structure.

The Malta International Fireworks Festival is an annual event hosted by the Malta Tourism Authority and the Ministry of Tourism. This stunning event takes place in Valletta's Grand Harbour and other sites towards the end of April to commemorate Malta's entrance to the European Union on May 1, 2004. Fireworks displays made by overseas pyrotechnic firms as well as some of the top local fireworks factories are featured at the festival.

Still, fireworks making in Malta is a year-round hobby for aficionados that will enthrall thousands of Maltese and foreign visitors.