Thousands of families from all Malta and Gozo literally flooded the 'Bethlehem f' Ghajnsielem' nativity village during the first weekend. Visitors also included hundreds of foreigners, journalists and several dignitaries. Two roman soldiers are staying on standby on the entrance door and taking the "Census in Bethlehem" from all visitors. In fact it was thanks to this census that Joseph and Mary went to Bethlehem.

The media also gave a good coverage of the event (click here to see Malta Independent front page photo). Timesofmalta.com is also featuring a video on their website.

Meanwhile Radju Lauretana is back on air with a varied selection of program including live transmissions from Loreto, St Anthony's Church and the Nativity village at Ta Passi.

The Nativity Village will be animated again this weekend with Saturday offering the unique of 'Bethlehem by Night' where visitors will be given a lamp while 'Ta Passi' will be lit with several bonfires. Animation starts at 4.00pm and will continue till 9.00pm. On Sunday, the animation starts at 1.30pm until 6.30pm. On Thursday 11th December, over 1000 students are expected to visit the village during a joint activity held by the Ghajnsielem Local Council, Ministry for Gozo and Ministry for Education.