Parishioners and revelers celebrated during a band march at the feast marking the shipwreck in 60 A.D. of Saint Paul, Malta’s patron saint, in Valletta, Malta on Saturday, two weeks ahead of its usual date of February 10, because that day will coincide with Carnival festivities. This event is a national public holiday and a religious feast. /VCG Photo

In 60 A.D., St Paul was said to have performed a number of miracles during his stay on the island, including the healing of Publius’ father, the Roman governor. /VCG Photo

Held every year in Valletta, the Feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck remembers the saint’s miracles after he took refuge on the island. A procession carries his statue through the streets accompanied by marching bands and fireworks. /VCG Photo

Once the band started to play, St. Paul’s Street was coated in a thick layer of shredded paper flakes, descending in a seemingly unending stream from balconies lining the route - much to the delight of the children who were throwing handfuls of the paper at each other and passersby. /VCG Photo