PN revives Independence celebrations at Floriana Granaries after eight years

The Nationalist Party has announced a three-day Independence celebration at the Floriana Granaries from 18 to 20 September, marking a return to the venue after an eight-year gap.

The party says the event will centre on the theme "A free country. A country without fear", addressing concerns about Malta's justice system and trust in institutions that have emerged during the trial over the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.

"A truly free country is one where journalists can carry out their work without fear; where institutions operate without interference; where the truth can emerge; where citizens do not fear those in power; and where no one is above the law," Charles Bonello, Nationalist Party Secretary General, said during a visit to the Granaries.

The proposed set up for the party's three-day Independence celebration (Photo: PN)

The celebrations mark 62 years since Malta gained independence in 1964. According to the party, independence is not simply a historical event but something that must be "safeguarded and defended every day".

The party said that, in light of questions about justice and accountability raised by the Caruana Galizia trial, this year's celebrations will carry a message of hope alongside determination to keep working for truth and justice.

The Granaries are described as the "natural home" for the celebrations, close to where the original Independence ceremony was held. The party says the venue holds deep significance as a place where generations of Maltese people have gathered for major political events.

Charles Bonello, Nationalist Party Secretary General, during a visit to the Granaries on Friday (Photo: PN)

Over the three days, the Granaries will host political discussions, family entertainment, music and food stalls. Three major performances are planned: ABBAFever (ABBA tribute band) on 18 September, QueenMania featuring Giacomo Voli (who won All Together Now and was runner-up on The Voice in Italy) on 19 September, and Pink's One (Pink Floyd tribute) on 20 September.

The celebrations will reach their climax on Sunday evening with a Mass Meeting addressed by Alex Borg, Opposition and party Leader. At midnight, an audiovisual commemoration will accompany the raising of the Maltese flag. A 5km Independence Run and Walk organised by TimSport will also take place on the opening day.

The party has also announced the fourth edition of the rottArti exhibition, running from 24 September to 11 October at party headquarters. The exhibition will feature work by 68 local and international artists ranging from 17 to 91 years old, including drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, bronze and pottery.

Events run daily from 18:30, with kids' entertainment, political discussions, and live music sessions also scheduled across the three days. A wreath-laying ceremony at the Independence Monument is planned for 19:30 on the final day.