50,000 people estimated in Valletta for New Year celebrations

Ferry services to and from Valletta will operate until 4am on New Year’s Eve, with buses also running late into the night, as an estimated 50,000 people descend on the capital to ring in the new year.

Organisers have advised the public to leave their cars at home in an effort to stave off traffic jams. Transport Malta will operate a special shuttle after the end of the regular public transport service, while the Barrakka lift will also run until 2am.

“New Year’s Eve sees one of the biggest events in Valletta concluding a year-long programme of projects and activities organised by the V18 Foundation,” foundation chairman Jason Micallef said at a press conference this morning.

“The event will also celebrate the 450-year anniversary of the laying of the foundation stone in Valletta.”

Tomorrow’s festivities in St George’s Square will kick off at 8pm with acoustic band Musique will be warming up the crowd with some jazz music, followed by The Crowns. Members of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra will also be performing on the night, as will special guests Glen Vella and Kevin Borg.

Mr Micallef also promised visitors a unique “surprise” on the night, not mentioning who or what it would...