The official program for the Christmas and New Year festivities in Madeira will run from December 1, 2026, to January 10, 2027. During this period, the island’s main city, Funchal, as well as other municipalities, transform into a vast winter wonderland filled with unique cultural traditions, illuminations, and gastronomic fairs.
While strolling through the festive streets, be sure to try the regional delicacies:
Bolo de mel is a famous Madeiran honey cake with spices and nuts.
Carne de vinho e alhos — pork marinated in wine and garlic, the island’s main Christmas dish.
Bolo do caco is a round flatbread with garlic butter, baked on a basalt stone.
Poncha and Madeira are traditional alcoholic drinks of the island that warm you up during evening strolls.
