The effect of the Maltese festa on well-being : an economic analysis, with a focus on youth participation

Abstract

This paper presents some considerations on the impact of the traditional Maltese festa on well-being among Maltese people. Drawing upon the literature on the determinants of well-being and relating this to the known impacts of the Maltese festa, the study first presents a discussion on the mechanisms through which this popular cultural event may impact well-being, positively and negatively, among participants and non-participants, in Malta. The study then presents the results of a life-satisfaction survey intended to examine the direct relationship between participation and well-being among the most active segment of the population - young people. The study concludes that while the Maltese festa is associated with higher levels of well-being among participants (including attendees), its effects on non-participants may well be negative. This provides some useful cues for further research as well as for policy-makers to mitigate the negative impacts and cultivate the positive well-being effects of the Maltese festa.