Madeira

It doesn’t matter when you visit Madeira there always seems to be something to celebrate, and the locals just love you to join in …

… whether you choose a New Year’s Day plunge into the chilly Atlantic or dancing on the street at the Madeira Carnival you are certainly going to see that this destination is vibrant, flamboyant and certainly not the sleepy island that you expect!

Here are some of our favourite festivals taking place this year

27 February – 6 March, 2019

At the end of February the island comes alive with colour, music, parades and big smiles. If you visit during this time you’ll be smiling from ear to ear as you see elaborately-dressed dancers sashaying down the streets of the capital Funchal accompanied by sparkling floats and music. The street food is delicious and on every corner you’ll be able to pick up a local delicacy. If you are there for “Carnival Tuesday” be sure to join the Slapstick Parade that takes place through the town.

12 May 2019

The largest Portuguese classic car event takes place on the island in May, so go vintage for the day in Funchal’s Praça do Povo as the most beautiful classic cars are rolled out for all to see. There is a rally across the island, a competition for best Belle Epoque outfit and of course plenty of awards for the most beautifully-preserved cars.

2-19 May, 2019

Madeira boast the most amazing flowers and if you visit in the spring you’ll see them at their best. This spectacular festival celebrates the sheer variety of tropical flowers across the islands and is as fragrant as it is colourful. The Wall of Hope Ceremony – 4th of May and Great Allegoric Flower Parade – 5th of May are the two main days so try not to miss these.

8, 15, 22 and 29 June (weekends), 2019

Concerts, show, fireworks, street performances. There’s not a quiet moment in June as Madeira kicks off the summer season with a whole variety of different events folded into the Atlantic Festival. Every Saturday night the pier outside Pontinha hosts a dramatic music and fireworks show, musicians from around the world gather to play at the three-day Atlantic Roots Festival, there is a week dedicated to art and traditional saints festivals take place throughout the month.

25 August – 8 September, 2019

Treading grapes, folk singing and of course wine tasting is a huge part of this traditional festival. Every where you turn this week, you’ll have chance to to help celebrate the wine harvest. Local restaurants and bars hold events so it’s the perfect time to see which wines they match up with their local cuisine, There will be plenty of great souvenirs to be had and not just in the bottle form, the local artists show make the most of the crowds and show of all their handicrafts.

1-6 October 2019

Madeira is a dramatic, stunning and special place and this week the island really shows off what it has to offer. Everyone is encouraged to try out something new – hiking, climbing, canyoning, mountain biking, water sports and much more.There are also craft shows and markets showcasing regional gastronomy as well as traditional folk music events.

December and January in Madeira are marked by a huge set of festivities. Christmas decorations, street entertainment, a festive atmosphere and amazing fireworks make this season one of the region’s most memorable. Experience Madeira’s traditions and cultures with locals and watch the magnificent fireworks, recognised by Guinness World Records as one of the world’s biggest displays. This will definitely leave you with the most amazing memories.

Jet2holidays fly weekly during the summer to Madeira from Leeds Bradford and because of the islands incredible climate these flights continue throughout the winter.

Pop in and see us for more information about festivals in Madeira and let us arrange a holiday for you that makes the most what the island has to offer.

Hope to see you soon,

Helen x