[WATCH] Mqabba's Santa Marija pyrotechnic show promises surprises

Preparations for the award-winning fireworks factory's 14th August display are in full swing

Mqabba's Tower of Light in action last year
Mqabba's Tower of Light in action last year

Fireworks enthusiasts and public alike are in for a treat this Sunday, when a record-breaking fireworks extravaganza will be hosted by Mqabba's Santa Marija fireworks factory to mark the 10th anniversary of its winning first place during the first Malta International Fireworks Festival.

For the past month, volunteers at the international award-winning pyrotechnics factory have been toiling day and at night in shifts, setting up launch tubes and connecting fuse wires in a field just outside Mqabba.

Video is unavailable at this time.

The show's coordinator, Jeremy Mercieca and Deputy Secretary General of the factory's Executive Committee Remenda Borg Grech explained that winning that festival, 10 years ago, had paved the way for their participation in Caput Lucis, a global firework display competition, in 2007 – which they won. This year's display will also showcase several new effects, added Mercieca. “We always try to incorporate something new for the people who appreciate our work.”

President of the Maltese Pyrotechnic Association Josef Camilleri, who is also the licensee of the Mqabba firework factory gave a taster of what's in store for the big day. Highlights of the show include a “Tower of Light”, 54 metres high, from which over 3500 pyrotechnics will be launched to music as well as a “Fireworks Fountain,” both techniques pioneered by the factory.

The launch setup for the Santa Marija pyrotechics display
The launch setup for the Santa Marija pyrotechics display

This year's show will use over 10,000 electronic ignitors, controlled by specialised firing software and around €60,000 worth of fireworks, all made by the 30 volunteers working in 12-man shifts. Their work is funded by the sale of fireworks to other villages.

Camilleri said he was proud of his team, the end product and the tradition they upheld. “ We make our own fireworks at our own risk, according to the particular needs of the show... these volunteers deserve respect for their work, above all for the pleasure they bring to the people.”