Madeira's calendar is full of colourful festivals, and some of them are worth planning a trip around. Exact dates change every year, so check the official programme before you book.
Carnival (February or March): parades through Funchal with samba schools and costumes.
Flower Festival (spring, usually April or May): the flower carpets, the children's Wall of Hope and a grand parade of floats decorated with flowers.
Atlantic Festival (June): fireworks shows over Funchal bay on several Saturday nights, plus concerts.
Madeira Wine Festival (late August and September): harvest celebrations, grape-treading demonstrations and tastings in Funchal and Estreito de Câmara de Lobos. See Madeira wine.
Columbus Festival (September, Porto Santo): a re-enactment of Columbus's arrival on Porto Santo.
Christmas and New Year (December to early January): Funchal's streets are lit up, and the New Year's Eve fireworks over the bay are among the most spectacular in the world.
Hotels and flights get expensive and book up early for New Year's Eve and the Flower Festival. Boat trips to watch the fireworks from the sea are popular and sell out; see our boat trips. For the weather in each month, see Madeira weather. Planning to be here for New Year? Read our guide to New Year's Eve in Madeira.
In spring, usually in April or May, a few weeks after Easter. Check the official dates each year.
Yes, the fireworks over Funchal bay are world-famous, but book hotels and boat trips many months in advance.
A 50-minute fado performance that combines live Portuguese music with wine. Suits visitors who want a short, relaxed introduction to local culture.
from €25 per person
Check availabilityvia GetYourGuide
Suits visitors in the festive season who want to see Funchal's illuminated decorations after dark. The evening ride is made in a classic car, adding a nostalgic touch.
from €35 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Suits travellers who want Christmas decorations combined with mountain views and village back roads. Stops include Câmara de Lobos, Ribeira Brava, Ponta do Sol and Funchal.
from €70 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
A relaxed way to see Funchal's festive lights with a guide, with around 13 short photo stops, including Barreirinha beach and the Avista Navios viewpoint over the bay at night.
from €90 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Watch the midnight fireworks from the water, away from the crowds onshore. The boat leaves from Funchal port and returns to the marina; groups of 6 to 30 people.
from €120 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
A small-group boat outing to watch the New Year fireworks, also offered for the June Atlantic Festival. Suits those who prefer a calmer evening on the water.
from €190 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Prices are indicative and may change. The final price is shown by the booking platform. Prices checked: October 16, 2026.
