Madeira events 2026

If you’ve set your sights on a walking holiday to Madeira, you’re in for a treat. The calendar year of 2026 is brimming with events and experiences beyond the trail.

Picture this: A year filled with vibrant events, catchy rhythms, and unbeatable experiences. Madeira in 2026 is where the party’s at, and you’re invited.

Whether you've got your trip all mapped out or are still considering it, here are some of the exciting events happening in Madeira 2026.

Madeira Events 2026: What's on The Island's Calendar?

February

Carnival

When: 11th - 22nd February 2026
Where: Funchal

Carnival is the first big celebration on Madeira’s events calendar, and it brings colour, music and plenty of fun to the whole archipelago. Every area joins in with small parades and themed parties, where locals and visitors dress up in creative Carnival costumes.

The festivities begin on the Wednesday before Entrudo (Shrove or Fat Tuesday) and continue right through to the Enterro do Osso, held on the Saturday after Carnival Day.

The biggest moment of the week happens on Saturday evening, when Funchal hosts a spectacular parade. Samba groups fill the streets with energetic music, bright costumes and plenty of dancing, attracting thousands of spectators.

On Tuesday afternoon, the fun gets even more playful with the Cortejo Trapalhão. This parade is all about humour and satire, and anyone can take part. Just turn up in your best disguise and join the party!

April

Madeira Rum Festival

When: 14th - 18th April 2026
Where: Funchal

The Madeira Rum Festival is back on 14 - 18 April, taking over the central walkway of Avenida Arriaga in Funchal’s city centre. Expect sunshine, great drinks and plenty of island flavour. Think chilled afternoons in the capital, sipping local rum, chatting to producers, and trying tasty pairings you’ll definitely want more of.

You can join fun masterclasses, enjoy guided tastings and learn how Madeira’s rum is made. All the big local brands will be there too, including William Hinton, O Reizinho, Vinha Alta, Engenhos da Calheta and more.

71st Flower Exhibition

When: 30th April - 24th May 2026
Where: Funchal

One of the main highlights of the Madeira Flower Festival is the Regional Floriculture Competition, held inside the colourful Flower Pavilion and themed “Ornaments and Flowers”. It’s organised by Madeira’s Regional Secretariat of Agriculture and Fisheries.

Inside the pavilion, flowers mix with local architecture and island crafts, creating a garden-inspired show you can walk through. The displays take inspiration from lace-style patterns, old viewpoints and Madeira’s charming little “Casinhas de Prazer” summer houses. 

And the experience doesn’t stop with the displays. You can also follow the festival scents straight to the Flower and Regional Products Market, where local flavours take centre stage. Try favourites like bolo do caco, homemade sweets, cider, craft beer and poncha with tropical twists. It is a fun mix of flowers, food and Madeiran creativity, all blooming together.

Expect vibrant colours, amazing scents and stunning creativity. A beautiful tribute to Madeira, brought to life in bloom.

May

Allegoric Parade

When: 3rd May 2026
Where: Funchal

Performances by the Flower Groups

When: 17th May 2026
Where: Funchal

The groups in the Allegoric Parade of the Flower Festival come to life with dazzling costumes and choreographies. This performance celebrates flowers, beauty and joy, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. Entry is limited to the venue’s capacity, so be sure to book your seat to enjoy this vibrant show that transforms the Heliport at Pier 8 into a stage of movement, colour and energy. The tickets for these unique shows are free and will be available at the Tourist Information Office, located in Avenida Arriaga.

Madeira Classic Car Revival

When: 22nd May 2026
Where: Funchal

The Classic Car Revival is organised by the Clube de Automóveis Clássicos da Madeira to showcase and reward the best vintage and classic vehicles in the region. This event celebrates the historical richness and diversity of these stunning cars, with a lively atmosphere that car enthusiasts will love. It’s a must-see for anyone passionate about classic cars.

June

Atlantic Festival

When: 5th- 28th June 2026
Where: Funchal

Summer starts with a bang at the Atlantic Festival, ringing in summer with tunes, sparks, and show-stopping acts. The festival is a vibrant showcase of culture that spreads its magic across Madeira.

The festival kicks off with pyromusical acts so eye-catching, you might just forget to blink.

Fancy some sparkle? Don’t miss the International Madeira Fireworks Competition. If acrobats and screens are more your thing, the Multimedia and Circus Shows won’t disappoint.

For those with an artsy flair, the Regional Arts Week will be a canvas of inspiration. And if you’re kneading something different, roll on over to the Funchal Lyons Club Bread Fair.

July

Classics at Magnolia

When: 25th - 26th July 2026
Where: Funchal

Step back in time with ‘Classica at Magnolia.’ This event is more than just a car show, it’s a journey through the golden age of motoring. It’s a showcase of the oldest cars in Madeira, a tribute to the automobile and motorists of the early 20th century.

August

Madeira Wine Lounge

When: 31st August 2026
Where: Funchal

The Madeira Wine Lounge at Praça do Povo is the perfect spot to enjoy wine and gastronomy tastings while listening to live regional music. Divided into four sections, it offers Madeira wine tastings, local delicacies, live music and DJs, and expert-led masterclasses. This event is a great opportunity for visitors and locals to explore the rich flavors of Madeira’s wines, from vineyard to bottle.