The European Poker Tour is back in action next week when Malta hosts what's going to be the penultimate event within the tour's history before things change and become the PokerStars Championship.

The festival offers all those usual attractions, not least a tournament schedule to fit every player, and each bank roll. Nevertheless it also offers something for players clear of the tables under the now traditional #StarsFun hashtag.

So in case you are prepared to travel to Malta next week, here is what you'll expect clear of the tables.

Live SPIN & GO

Are you a Spin & Go more or less player? We're re-launching these popular three-handed tournaments live at EPT Malta between October 20-28. They run from 2pm to 8pm on each of these days. Come along and feature a spin.

Player Lounge

A place to unwind and regroup is usually as important as a spot to play. The EPT Player Lounge offers exactly that for players seeking some respite. It will be open within the festival, so be happy to drop to escape from things for a while.

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Escape Room and Laser Tag

Being trapped in a room and not using a windows for hours on end is also called "Day 1A", but in Malta it's called the "Escape Room". If you are not accustomed to Escape Rooms they are a type of puzzle, wherein you're locked in until you bust out (or until time runs out).

This, along side Laser Tag activities falls under the "adrenalin rush" category of activities in Malta, and run from October 20 to 24. After 13 seasons, it is the first time busting out of something was an even thing at the Tour. Take advantage of it. Email concierge@ept-travel.com to order your place.

Player's Party

An EPT festival isn't the same and not using a player party, that's why the exclusive Level 22 club will again host players on October 22 from 10pm onwards. It promises to be a full of life evening.

Right To Play Charity Tournament

It will not be the richest event at the schedule, however it tends to be the happiest. It's here that pros and amateurs alike mix things up for a night of rebuy action in aid of Right To Play. There tend to be some great prizes on offer, with the festivities kicking off for this great cause at 7.30pm on Sunday October 23.

Casino Climber

If you are looking for a break from poker and prefer to dabble in blackjack every now and then then we're hosting an EPT Malta Blackjack Tournament on Thursday October 20 after which again on Friday October 28.

Ideas Hub

Some of the most productive ideas ever implemented by PokerStars came on the suggestion of our players, something we intend to keep up. So when you have an idea for PokerStars come and chat to our company reps onsite on October 19, 20, 23, 24 & 25 from 4pm-10pm.

Ideas Play

We'll even be trialling some new and exciting poker games. You'll be able to come and take a look at them out with Ideas Play from 5pm - 7pm on October 21-26.

Visits to Valletta

No trip to Malta is complete with out a visit to Valetta, something every player should attempt to slot in. The Maltese capital is steeped in history, dating back centuries, and you may join us for a leisurely four hour walk around its narrow streets on Thursday October 20, and again on Monday October 24. It starts at 1pm on on a daily basis and you'll enroll at concierge@ept-travel.com

For more information about the EPT Malta festival, take a look at the EPT homepage.

Stephen Bartley is a staff writer for the PokerStars Blog. Follow him on Twitter: @StephenBartley.

Read More... [Source: PokerStarsBlog.com :: European Poker Tour]