“We have chosen the Chinese theme because Chinese culture is very colourful and decorative, giving us an opportunity to make fantastic creations,” said esteemed artist Michael Camilleri Cauchi.

His work was displayed by the Labonski Dance Company dancers dressed in colourful red armour and golden dragons. They also presented a performance that blended western and eastern cultures.

“Expenses are high to design such a good work,” said George Zammit, the founder of the Labonski Carnival Company who has been working on Carnival floats since 1974. “However, by now, the carnival is part of our life, and we will do whatever it takes to build beautiful carnival floats each year. We have really appreciated the support from the China Cultural Centre in Malta, since this encourages us to continue to share carnival joy with all who come to celebrate with us.”

An important part of the Maltese culture, carnivals date back to the 1530s in the European country. Every year carnivals are held on the islands of Malta and Gozo, attracting tens of thousands of people to take part. This year, more than 25,000 people attended the Gozo’s Regional Carnival on Feb 18.