Evolving to stay relevant: an ethnographic study of ritual Festi, Fireworks and socio-cultural transformations in contemporary Malta

This thesis wants to explore the Maltese tradition of Festi from an ethnographic perspective, in particular how local identity, community ties and social change shapes these dynamic cultural performances. Through participant observation, it investigates the multiple functions of a tradition that has managed to keep itself relevant in a changing society so far. Through the ethnographic lens, it is possible to realize that the Maltese Festa is not a static religious ritual but a lively community celebration thanks to its permeability to change. Supported by the cultural and anthropological studies by Boissevain, Geertz and Cassar, this ethnographic research shows how symbols, prestige, tradition and belonging are publicly enacted and discussed though a weeklong celebration of the beloved Saint protecting its supporters. In this study, Fireworks displays in particular emerge as contested symbolic performances both responsible for giving a universal appeal to Festa and raising environmental concerns. Pyrotechnics emerge as fundamental protagonists’ symbols of continuity, resistance and investment while being the focus of progressing environmental research to establish their impact on the relatively small territory. Economic growth, tourism, migration and gentrification represent challenges for Festa who needs to keep up with the fast social and cultural changes happening to Malta. The celebration must adapt and mediate between past and present, local and global to preserve their function of community celebrations that creates and reinforce social ties. Ultimately, this work wants to offer an anthropological perspective on how cultural traditions are a fundamental tool to keep communities united under modern pressures and tendency of individualism.