Maltese makeup artist and influencer Henry Galea revealed that this year’s Christmas tree in Valletta will be scented.“Today was such a special…what once was just an idea has now become something real,” wrote Galea on social media. In his story, he went on to thank his team for the support they’ve been providing on this journey. He also thanked Jason Micallef for the trust and support as well as everyone who believed in him from the beginning.This year’s festive “Christmas in the Capital” celebrations in Valletta. The event kicks off on 25 November at 6 p.m. with the switching‑on of the city’s tree and lights.At a press briefing, Galea described his design as something “unique”: “People can look at it and smell it this year- something never done before.” While he did not reveal full details of the tree’s materials or design, the announcement comes after last year’s tree faced criticism for its resemblance to a construction site. View this post on InstagramA post shared by Lovin Malta (@lovinmalta)Valletta Cultural Agency Chairman Jason Micallef noted that the budget for the season has been increased to €650,000, up from €500,000 last year, signalling a bigger investment in the capital’s festive programme.The lights ceremony will feature host presenters Jamie Cardona and Taryn Mamo Cefai, following last year’s more dramatic “light‑stunt” approach.Culture Minister Owen Bonnici highlighted that the event’s many free offerings aim to be accessible for everyone- noting that even visitors who couldn’t return home for the holidays had expressed gratitude for the initiative. He also paused to reflect on the plight of people in Gaza, and expressed hope that this Christmas might foster an atmosphere of “peace, love and tolerance.”Will you be celebrating the holiday season in Valletta?Credit: @henrygalea via Instagram•