On 5 December, Esplora Interactive Science Centre officially kicked off its festive season with its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. During the event, guests were also treated to an exclusive preview of Esplora’s new Christmas programme, Santa’s STEAM Factory, which will run from 21 December to 6 January.
During the event the official video was launch. This year’s production is a hybrid between animation and real-world footage, created in collaboration with local artists. The result is a heart-warming visual narrative that blends creativity with innovation, capturing the true magic of Christmas and showcasing Esplora’s commitment to merging science, technology, and the arts.
Present for the occasion were Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation Keith Azzopardi Tanti, the Mayor of Kalkara Wayne Aquilina, and Esplora’s Senior Director Mary Ann Cauchi, as well as employees from Esplora and Xjenza Malta, who joined in celebrating the launch.
This year, Esplora will be transformed into Santa’s STEAM Factory, where the magic of Christmas meets the creativity of STEAM—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Esplora’s festive programme will see its elves blend artistic flair with scientific curiosity to create an enchanting world of discovery. Visitors will be able to enjoy hands-on workshops, captivating science shows, and immersive Planetarium films, all designed to turn creativity and curiosity into the true magic of Christmas.
Aimed at inspiring visitors of all ages, this unique experience invites families to explore, create, and celebrate the Christmas spirit through the wonder of STEAM at Malta’s Interactive Science Centre.
Parliamentary Secretary Keith Azzopardi Tanti praised Esplora’s efforts in fostering a passion for science among young people. “Esplora continues to play a vital role in nurturing a love for science among young people. Events like today’s highlight the centre’s commitment to education, innovation, and community engagement.”
Kalkara Mayor Wayne Aquilina also shared his remarks on the occasion. “It is always a pleasure for us, as the Kalkara community, to see and enjoy the innovations that the Esplora team introduces.” He added that “these efforts ensure that this interactive science centre—so popular in our village—continues to attract Maltese, Gozitans, and tourists throughout the year, including during the Christmas season.”
During the ceremony, Senior Director Mary Ann Cauchi highlighted the importance of accessible science education. “The Christmas season presents a unique opportunity to inspire curiosity and learning in a fun and memorable way. Through initiatives like Santa’s STEAM Factory, we aim to spark imagination while bringing families together.”
The ceremony concluded with the grand illumination of Esplora’s Christmas tree, marking the official start of the Science Centre’s festive season. Santa’s STEAM Factory forms part of Esplora’s mission to promote curiosity, creativity, and hands-on learning throughout the holidays.
