The Ministry for Culture, Lands, and Local Government, in collaboration with the Parliamentary Secretariat for Youth, Research and Innovation, Aġenzija Żgħażagħ, and Festivals Malta, has provided financial support to 42 cultural organizations through the new Funding Scheme for Youth Cultural Organizations Participating in Carnival 2026. A total of €160,000 was distributed to the organizations, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing youth engagement in the Maltese Carnival while promoting creativity, cultural identity, and artistic expression.
The funding will help beneficiary organizations produce costumes, dance performances, music, and other artistic elements for Carnival 2026. This support enables these groups to continue investing in quality, innovation, and local talent, ensuring the sustainability of cultural initiatives.
Minister for Culture, Lands, and Local Government Owen Bonnici highlighted that the scheme underscores the value of Carnival as a key cultural and community expression. He emphasized that the event unites generations, strengthens Maltese identity, and provides a space where art, tradition, and innovation intersect. Bonnici also acknowledged the efforts of organizers, volunteers, and artists, reiterating the government’s ongoing commitment to investing in cultural development.
Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation Keith Azzopardi Tanti stressed the importance of equipping youth with the resources to bring fresh ideas and modern perspectives to longstanding traditions. He described the funding as an investment in both the creativity of young people and the future of the Maltese Carnival.
Clint Axisa, President of the Carnival Participating Organizations, expressed gratitude for the continuous government support and recognized the dedication of volunteers, artists, and youth in maintaining and improving Carnival standards. He noted that the scheme provides a significant boost to organizations striving to enhance artistic and organizational excellence while preserving a vital aspect of Maltese cultural identity.
Through this initiative, the government continues to strengthen Malta’s cultural ecosystem, support voluntary work, and create more opportunities for youth to actively participate in major national cultural events like Carnival.
