Carnival in Malta

Carnival has had an important place on the Maltese cultural calendar for just under five centuries, having been celebrated since at least the mid-15th century. Carnival has been a much expected celebration in the Islands since the rule of Grand Master Piero de Ponte in 1535. Carnival is held during the week leading up to Ash Wednesday, and typically includes masked balls, different competitions, dancing, fancy dresses, carnival floats and masks, lavish late-night parties, a colourful, ticker-tape parade of themed floats presided over by King Carnival, marching bands and costume revellers. Maltese Carnival has been celebrated since the 1400's.