[WATCH] Fifth edition of Bugibba Summer carnival launched

Fifth edition of Bugibba Summer carnival launched • Video by Ray Attard

Parliamentary secretary Stefan Buontempo launched the fifth edition of the Bugibba Summer carnival earlier today.

The event, which will be held on the 22 and 23 August, will host a record 13 floats and various dance troupes, carnival committee chairman Jason Busuttil said.

He added that the event would also host the traditional giostra, in which participants climbing up a greasy pole to collect a flag at the top.

"The giostra is designed to show young people and tourists alike a traditional aspect of the Maltese carnival," he said, stressing that many people were not aware of this age-old tradition.

Mayor of St Paul's Bay Graziella Galea said that Bugibba was an ideal location for the event since it showcased the Maltese carnival in an area popular with tourists.

Galea added that the event was also important to strengthen the commercial aspect of the locality, which would ultimately benefit the whole region.

Buontempo explained that the central government was always willing to support local talent and that the carnival was an opportunity for many to show off their skills.

"We aim to continue to grow this annual summer event to reach its culmination when Valletta becomes the capital for culture in 2018," he said, adding that the event also served as a stepping stone to the much anticipated winter carnival, which will be held in the first week of February next year.