Madeira events

If you've got a walking holiday to Madeira on your wish list, there's plenty to look forward to beyond the trails.

From colourful festivals and local traditions to food, music and celebrations, the island has a packed calendar of events throughout the year.

Whether you're planning your trip or just looking for inspiration, here are some of the highlights.

Madeira Events: What's on The Island's Calendar?

February

Carnival

Carnival is one of the biggest celebrations of the year in Madeira, bringing colour, music and plenty of fun to every corner of the island.

From lively street parties to local parades, it's a chance for everyone to dress up, join in and celebrate. The festivities begin on the Wednesday before Entrudo (Shrove Tuesday) and continue through to Enterro do Osso, held on the Saturday after Carnival Day.

The highlight of the week is Saturday night's spectacular parade through the streets of Funchal. Expect dazzling costumes, lively samba groups, infectious music and an atmosphere that's impossible not to get swept up in.

Then on Tuesday afternoon, the mood turns a little more playful with the Cortejo Trapalhão. This light-hearted parade is all about humour and satire, and anyone can join in.

April

Madeira Rum Festival

The Madeira Rum Festival takes over the central walkway of Avenida Arriaga in the heart of Funchal with sunshine, great drinks and plenty of island flavour. Think relaxed afternoons sampling local rum, chatting to producers and discovering delicious food pairings along the way.

You can also join guided tastings and masterclasses to learn more about Madeira's long-standing rum-making traditions. Whether you're already a rum fan or simply curious to try something new, it's a great way to experience another side of the island's local culture

Flower Exhibition

What happens when you give talented florists a pavilion full of flowers? The Regional Floriculture Competition. Inside, you'll find colourful displays inspired by Madeira's architecture, local crafts and charming Casinhas de Prazer summer houses. It's well worth taking your time. 

Then follow your nose to the Flower and Regional Products Market for a taste of Madeira. Try bolo do caco, a warm traditional flatbread often served with garlic butter, alongside homemade sweets, local cider, craft beer and poncha.

May

Allegoric Parade

Taking place on 3rd and 17th May, the Allegorical Flower Parade fills downtown Funchal with music, colour and the scent of flowers. A festival highlight since 1979, it features beautifully decorated floats and colourful costumes worn by hundreds of participants.

Performances by the Flower Groups

If you thought the Flower Parade was impressive, the Flower Groups keep the celebrations blooming.

Watch performers in vibrant, flower-inspired costumes bring the stage to life with colourful choreography, lively music and plenty of festival spirit.

Seats are limited, so it's worth booking ahead if you'd like to catch the show at the Heliport on Pier 8.

The best part? Tickets are completely free and can be picked up from the Tourist Information Office on Avenida Arriaga.

Madeira Classic Car Revival

The Classic Car Revival brings together some of the island's finest vintage and classic vehicles for a celebration of automotive history.

Whether you're a lifelong car enthusiast or simply appreciate beautiful design, you'll find lovingly restored classics, plenty of character and a lively festival atmosphere.

It's a great chance to admire these timeless vehicles up close.

June

Atlantic Festival

Summer arrives in Madeira with quite the welcome. The Atlantic Festival fills the island with live music, spectacular fireworks and plenty of reasons to stay out after sunset.

There's lots to discover too, from the International Madeira Fireworks Competition to multimedia and circus shows, Regional Arts Week and the Funchal Lions Club Bread Fair.

It's the kind of festival where there's always something happening.

July

Classics at Magnolia

Step back in time with ‘Classics at Magnolia’, where some of Madeira's oldest and most beautifully preserved cars take centre stage.

It's a celebration of the golden age of motoring and a chance to get up close to the vehicles that helped shape the island's automotive history.

August

Madeira Wine Lounge

Good wine, great food and live music? That's a combination we can get behind.

 The Madeira Wine Lounge brings together local wine tastings, delicious Madeiran flavours, live entertainment and masterclasses, all in one relaxed setting.

Discover more of Madeira

Madeira may be popular with walkers, but there's so much more to this Portuguese island - as these events reveal. On an Inghams holiday, you'll benefit from seeing all the highlights to all the who-knews - and everything else in between. With your handy Digital Travel Guide and Destination Experts itching to share more insider tips and advice, you're all set.