Summer’s over in theory. Schools are back, politicians are coming out of ‘silly season’ (or are they, judging by the new batch of pre, pre-election billboard fever) and some clouds are on the horizon. Early autumn is a time to relish as it brings culture aplenty especially this weekend (29 – 30 September) which is a good example of ‘more going on that we can go to’. As an ode to autumn, we see two big annual spectacles round again – Notte Bianca, and the Malta International Airshow. Since one is night and the other day, you can go to both.
Malta International Airshow
Living here, you’ll hear the planes arriving in readiness for the Malta International Airshow. It’s a great family day out especially as kids under 14 go in free. It’s been a couple of years since the UK’s Red Arrows performed here (cutbacks as well as other commitments), but 2012 sees them back as the lead in the display programme. Enjoy static displays all day from 10.00 – 17.30, and flying displays on both Saturday and Sunday from 13.15. We have a special love affair with the airshow which we wrote about here. Do check the site for full details of how to get there, protocols, tickets, entrances and traffic flow routes. All to be abided by so everyone has a great day out.
Notte Bianca
Another firm diary date that’s now in its sixth year, “Notte Bianca” (from the Italian meaning White Night), sees Valletta come to life for one night in an explosion of activities till the early hours (last performances this year start at 1am).
In a capital that has a reputation (now thankfully less so) of going quiet at night, Notte Bianca is a catalyst for all-night activities all around the fortified city. Shops, churches and museums remain open till late. And every corner teems with music, opera, poetry readings, exhibitions, dance, street theatre, burlesque, art and more. This year, there are around 60 or so events on in the city to mark the night; most running continuously so you can wend your way from one to another without missing the pick of the best.
See the Notte Bianca programme. Just wear comfy shoes, pace the wine and beer and plan how to come and go from Valletta (bus the best bet in with a lift from a friend home – get someone to take a car in earlier in the day perhaps). Finally, take the kids along if you can – plenty of culture in the programme for them in addition to just staying up late and noshing on the street food.
Full details on the Notte Bianca website.
Let’s just hope it’s not a wet White Night Weekend to mark summer’s end!