Notte Bianca is an annual cultural event that takes place in the Maltese capital of Valletta. Throughout the night music, dance, and the performing arts take place in parks and squares around the city while the presidential palace, armoury, and other government buildings open their doors to visitors. The result is a night of cultural enjoyment for the tourists and locals alike.

This year I had the privilege of attending Notte Bianca as a volunteer photographer. Here are a few moments I captured of Notte Bianca 2017. Enjoy!

A re-enactment of a gun salute by The Knights of Malta kick off the festivities at Upper Barrakka Gardens. Prior to independence in 1963, Malta was ruled by many different empires - Greeks, Roman, French, British - but none are more cherished in Malta than the Knights of Malta who settled here in 1530.

A man inspects drums and memorabilia of the Zejtun Band Club inside The Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Government buildings normally restricted to public access were open on Notte Bianca and filled with different displays. Marching band clubs are a big part of annual religious celebrations in Malta known as Festas, or feasts.

Min Hemm? Visitors participate in an interactive art installation in front of the National Library in Valletta. Three phone booths were erected, each inviting patrons to answer a ringing phone. Many took the call but who was on the other end of the line?

Music was a major part of Notte Bianca 2017 and the mainstage was active all night.

Two brothers play on an interactive stage where a large web of lights mimic their actions. There was a lot of jumping and smiling at this booth. “Look at me mom!”

There were also a number of “atmosphere” events that took place around the city. These pop up shows were not officially part of Notte Bianca but were recognized by the Arts Council. The duo here were staged outside a brightly lit art gallery. I thought the back lighting offered a nice effect.

Republic Street was crazy on Notte Bianca. Here “The Clowns” performed to an intrigued crowd. Despite all of the amplified events taking place around the city, this performance was silent yet it seemed to garner the most attention.