If there is one thing which grabs the attention of visitors to the Maltese islands during the Summer months, it is by far the colourful festivities of the many village feasts which light up the Maltese Sky and give tourists a true sense of traditional Maltese Culture.
We therefore find it fitting to kick off our Grand Harbour Marina Staff Spotlight, a recurring feature for clients to get to know the team at the marina on a more personal level, by introducing a member of staff who forms an integral part of the Birgu Community, most especially his involvement with the Feast of St.Dominic in Birgu, Vittoriosa.
Ronald Attard, is born and raised in Birgu and has been working at Camper and Nicholsons Grand Harbour Marina Vittoriosa for the past 13 years forming part of the Maintenance Department. Apart from his interest in being part of the marine sector, his true passion lies in the work done within his community which he has been actively involved in since 1999. This year-round commitment sees efforts in fundraising activities and events take place throughout the year to raise money towards to feast, as well as many hours a day of voluntary work put in to ensure a fantastic week of celebrations that will surely impress visitors to the marina.
Ronald’s speciality lies in the tapestry work done for the colourful valences ‘pavaljuni’ and patriotic flags which dress the village square and Parish Church during the feasts. Between 15-25 of these stunning fabrics are produced every year.
Ronald Attard comments,
“Patterns are designed by some of the best artists in the country and then given to me to transfer the designs onto fabric to scale to create works of art in bright parish colours.”
Experiencing a traditional village festa such as this one is something which one should add to their bucket list when visiting the Maltese Islands. Guests to the marina will have the opportunity to witness this feast from the 17th – 25th of August. Such activities to take place during the week are the processions with the statue of St.Dominic through the village square, a philharmonic orchestra in front of a crowd of about 600 people, traditional street stalls showcasing the best of Maltese cuisine and the unmistakable firework displays.
To be apart of the festivities, click here to book a berth at Grand Harbour Marina.