Madeira is a small island, but it has plenty of festivals to keep you entertained. The island is known for its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of exciting things to do here! In fact, Madeira hosts an impressive number of festivals throughout the year that brings together locals and tourists alike. Here are some of our favorites:
1. Madeira Carnaval
Madeira Carnaval (or as they call it Madiera’s Carnival) is an annual festival that takes place in February and March. The highlight of this month-long celebration is the big parade on March 5th, which takes place in Funchal and attracts thousands of people from all over the world. It is a well-known event, and people come to visit from Portugal and all around Europe.
If you’re planning your trip around Madeira Carnival, here are some things to keep in mind:
- The festival starts with its traditional opening ceremony at Corpo Santo Church (Corpo Santo) on February 20th.
- In addition to street parties and parades throughout Funchal’s historic center, there will also be concerts held at various locations throughout town. Check out the activities happening during Madeira Carnival by following @madeiracarnival on Twitter or visiting their Facebook page.
2. Madeira Wine Festival
The Madeira Wine Festival is a must for any wine enthusiast. The event takes place in Funchal, the capital city of Madeira, and occurs at the end of May or the beginning of June. There are several activities during this festival, including live music concerts and tastings of different types of wines produced on the island.
The fun doesn’t stop there: you’ll also get to enjoy food pairings with your favorite drinks! You can even take part in some wine-themed competitions such as painting with wine or visit one of their many museums dedicated to educating you about what makes these beverages so special.
If all that sounds good to you but tickets seem too expensive right now? Don’t worry; there are still ways for travelers who don’t have much cash left after buying plane tickets into town for free!
3. Madeira Jazz Festival
The Madeira Jazz Festival is one of the most popular festivals on the island, and for good reason. It usually takes place in February or March. If you want to go see some great jazz acts in an intimate setting with beautiful views, this is your chance!
The festival takes place at various venues around Funchal, the capital city, and tickets are reasonably priced (around 10 Euros). You can also purchase VIP passes if you want to get closer to the action or enjoy some additional perks like free drinks or food samples.
What else should you do while visiting Madeira during its annual jazz celebration? Well, there’s plenty! For starters: check out some other festivals happening around town while they’re still going strong; explore Madeira’s history sites like Quinta da Boa Vista (an estate once owned by King Carlos I); rent a car so that you can explore further than just Funchal; take advantage of discounted rates at local hotels during high season months like June through September (you’ll save money without sacrificing quality!).
4. Madeira Folklore Festival
The Madeira Folklore Festival is a two-week event that takes place from June 22 to July 1. It’s one of the biggest festivals in Madeira, so you’ll definitely want to check it out if you’re in town!
The festival is held at various locations around Funchal, including Quinta do Lorde park, Jardim das Rosas garden, and Maritimo Garden Park. There are also many other smaller events held throughout the island during this time period.
The best way to get there is by car or taxi; if you don’t have either of those options available then try taking public transportation (but be prepared for long lines). The festival is free with some activities having an entrance fee (usually under 5 Euros).
5. Festas do Mar (Feast of the Sea) – Santo da Serra, Funchal
Festas do Mar is held in Santo da Serra (a 30-minute ride from Funchal). The festival takes place on July 1st, 2nd, and 3rd every year and is one of the largest celebrations in Madeira.
Festas do Mar celebrates a centuries-old tradition dating back to when fishermen would offer thanks for their safe return home after fishing expeditions. Today it’s become quite a big event with many stalls selling local produce as well as games for children such as tug-of-war competitions or races along sandy beaches! There are also parades through town where fishermen dress up in traditional costumes from different parts of Europe such as Italy or France. So, if you’re visiting during this time then make sure you check out these amazing costumes!
6. Madeira Fashion Week
Madeira Fashion Week is an annual event that takes place in Funchal, Madeira. The event was first held in 2014 and has been growing ever since. Last year’s edition featured over 300 designers as well as a number of activities such as runway shows and presentations by brands such as Yves Saint Laurent and Roberto Cavalli.
The main events at Madeira Fashion Week include:
- The Opening Ceremony – This event kicks off the week with an elaborate ceremony featuring models walking down a red carpet wearing fashions from some of the best designers on the island. It also includes speeches from local dignitaries who thank everyone for coming together to make this possible!
- Designer Presentations – You’ll get to see how some of these talented individuals work their magic behind closed doors when they show off their designs before presenting them to buyers around the world! If you’re lucky enough (and connected), maybe someone will buy something from your closet too.
7. Madeira International Music Festival
The Madeira International Music Festival is an annual event that takes place in Funchal, Madeira. It’s a celebration of classical music and arts, with concerts held at venues across the city.
The festival was founded in 1998 by Dr. Jose Carlos Seixas Barros, an internationally-renowned pianist who wanted to create an event where performers could share their talents with locals and tourists alike. He also wanted to showcase Madeira’s unique culture and history through traditional music performances as well as modern ones, and he succeeded!
Today there are over 50 events each year at various locations around Funchal, including churches, concert halls, theaters, and museums.
8. Madeira’s Food Festivities (Festa das Escolas)
Madeira’s Food Festivities is a festival that takes place in Madeira every year. It is a celebration of the importance of food in the island’s culture, and it features many different events related to food and drink, including tastings and competitions.
The main event is held on May 1st at Praia da Vitória Beach. There are also other smaller celebrations throughout the rest of May, with each town hosting an event that highlights its local cuisine.
If you are interested in Fado shows during lunch or dinner, check out our guide to the best Fado restaurants and shows in Madeira.
