Building on the decades-long legacy of Għanafest, Festivals Malta is holding Festgħana from May 21 to 24.
A celebration of traditional Maltese culture, the event will be held over four days at the Argotti Gardens in Floriana and Ġnien l-Għannejja Żwieten in Żejtun.
Some of Malta’s finest għannejja will perform, including acclaimed performer Żeppi Spagnol, who will showcase his masterful storytelling through traditional għana.
Special tributes will honour the enduring legacies of Manuel Casha and Ġanmarì Spiteri Amletu, two legendary figures in Maltese traditional music.
Festgħana also celebrates emerging talent through the Għannejja Ġodda programme, highlighting the next generation of għana singers who continue this important cultural tradition.
The principal għannejja in the recently released film Żejtune, including protagonist Nenu Borg, will demonstrate the spontaneous artistry of Għana Spirtu Pront, showcasing the improvisational skills that make this musical form so distinctive.
Community engagement remains central to the festival experience. The traditional Ġejjin bil-Banda procession with Banda Vilhena will wind through Floriana’s streets, while the concluding Festa Ftira celebration will bring together participants in the spirit of authentic Maltese hospitality.
The programme also includes workshops on documenting Malta’s intangible cultural heritage through photography, artisan demonstrations and traditional food experiences.
International performers, including Gusle from Serbia, The Baltic Sisters and the Aurora Folk Group, will complement the local programming while highlighting the universal appeal of folk traditions.
Festgħana is organised by Festivals Malta as part of its commitment to preserving and promoting Malta’s rich cultural heritage for current and future generations.
The complete festival programme and additional information are available at www.festivals.mt/festghana.
