Madeira

Carnival on Madeira is a raucous celebration — one of the best in Europe. It is an annual festival held forty days before Easter, with activities ranging from Samba groups to electrifying street parades and costume competitions– it's easy to get swept up in the song and dance all across the island.

Every year after Easter, Funchal hosts an upbeat, colourful flower festival made possible by its subtropical climate. The city becomes drowned in soft, ephemeral perfumes produced by the many flower walls and carpets made by the locals.

Taking place in June, the Atlantic Festival marks the beginning of the summer season in Madeira. Classical music concerts, fireworks, and street performances make this the epitome of Madeira's summer nightlife.

This folk festival is held in late August, early September, when the grape harvest begins. In Funchal and Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, this occasion is celebrated with decorations, music, and dancing. It will be hard to refuse a glass of one of the many wines flowing in celebration.

In September, Vila Baleira honours Christopher Columbus, who once lived in the archipelago. The festival commemorates the discoverer’s presence on the Madeira Islands and his voyages to the Americas with performances that recreate the atmosphere in the time of the Portuguese explorers.

Surrender to the charms of an island that exhales energy and inspires adventure. Held in October with the goal of promoting nature tourism, the festival offers activities for all ages, which allow direct contact with the island's rich natural heritage.

During Christmas season, Funchal Bay's amphitheatre is transformed into a giant festive scene illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights. When New Year's Eve arrives, the city's skies are filled with fireworks launched from over 50 different points, a dazzling start to the upcoming year.