Fish Festival 2022 in Marsaxlokk

After a two-year absence, the Fish Festival, celebrating the Maltese and Gozitan traditions linked to fishing, will take place in Marsaxlokk, on Sunday 11th September.

This activity was launched by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Anton Refalo, by the Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights Alicia Bugeja Said together with the Mayor of Marsaxlokk Steven Grech.

In a news conference it was explained how a Fish Festival will be held along the Marsaxlokk shore, on Sunday 11 September from 6pm onwards. As in previous years, Festa Hūt will offer educational elements that raise awareness as well as traditional aspects. Among these activities there will be fish sales, cooking and promotion of unpopular fish caught in local waters, information stands, free entertainment for children, as well as an evening of music by artists local.

The year 2022 also coincides with the International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture, as declared by the United Nations. Therefore it is the right moment to celebrate this festival again.

Minister Anton Refalo explained how “this activity is another opportunity to expose the work of the Maltese and Gozitan fishermen who with great dedication see that they put healthy and fresh fish on our plates”. He continued by saying how important it is to show appreciation for the work of Maltese and Gozitan fishermen through this type of events.

Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said explained how “Local fishing is an essential part of the economy, of culture, and an important source of food. Therefore we felt the need for the Maltese people to remain aware of the challenges, the opportunities, and the daily work that is being done in this sector. Both the Government, as well as the entities involved in this sector, feel that an initiative like Festa Hút can be the bridge that continues to bring the public and the fishing sector together.”

Parliamentary Secretary Bugeja Said emphasized that all the proceeds of the activity will be for philanthropic purposes, with a sense of charity for those in need. She concluded by encouraging the Maltese and Gozitan people to attend with enthusiasm so that we can all together celebrate the fishermen and their communities.