Summer carnival returned over the weekend, bringing a vibrant splash of colour to the seaside localities of Buġibba and Marsascala.

As with previous editions, the carnival kicked off with the traditional ġostra set up at the water’s edge just off Buġibba Square. The ġostra is synonymous with summer festivities on the island and sees competitors climb along a greased pole in an attempt to reach a flag at the far end.

This was followed by a parade of brightly-coloured carnival floats and street performances along the Qawra sea front.

The burlesque fun moved to Marsascala yesterday, with another street parade along the promenade. Again, dance performances and floats brought with them an air of jolly levity for the summer défilé.

The summer carnival’s floats are generally smaller than those used in the winter festival and are crafted with summer themes.

This year, the organisers introduced a ‘hands-on summer carnival experience’.

The initiative was aimed at teaching children more about the artistic work behind the event. Demonstrations about papier-mâché, clay modelling, mask painting and balloon figures were given.

The summer carnival moved to Marsascala yesterday, with another street parade along the promenade.