Events in Madeira 2026, 2027, 2028 – Calendar of Events and Festivals

 

 

Flower Festival 2026 in Madeira

 

The festival is not only a feast for the eyes but also a deeply symbolic event. It is inaugurated by The Children's Parade and the construction of The Wall of Hope (Muro da Esperança), where thousands of children dressed in white create a colorful installation with flowers, symbolically calling for peace and a better world. The highlight is the Grand Flower Parade (Cortejo Alegórico da Flor), during which colorful floats and groups of dancers in fancy, floral costumes parade through the streets of Funchal, spreading unforgettable scents.

In 2026, to enhance viewing comfort, the parade will take place twice: on May 3 and 17.

In addition to the parades, the program includes many other attractions, such as The Classic Car Parade decorated with flowers (May 10), flower exhibitions and fairs, concerts, and local craft displays. This makes the Flower Festival an ideal opportunity to experience the unique atmosphere of Madeira during the time when the island's nature, known as the "floating garden of the Atlantic," blooms in full splendor.

 

from April 30 to May 24

Celebrations in downtown Funchal

 

   

 

May 1-2

Palheiro Gardens Golf Classic

 

a unique golf tournament held in Madeira, closely tied to the Flower Festival (Festa da Flor). The sixth edition of this event is scheduled for May 1 and 2, 2026.

The tournament takes place on the picturesque Palheiro Golf course, which offers breathtaking views of Funchal Bay. It is not just a sports competition, but above all a celebration that combines three elements: high-level golf, the beauty of the surrounding nature (especially the famous Palheiro Gardens), and the richness of local culture and cuisine, including tastings of the famous Madeira wine. From the very beginning, the tournament has also had a charitable dimension, supporting various organizations such as Make-A-Wish and the World Cetacean Alliance, and in recent editions, it emphasizes ecological responsibility, for example, through tree planting. The event attracts around a hundred golfers from around the world,including. from the UK, Germany, Canada, and France. Its prestige is highlighted by the presence of well-known figures from the golf world, such as French trick shot master Arnaud Serie, and journalists, for example, from the BBC. The history of the tournament has recorded extraordinary moments, such as two holes-in-one achieved during the inaugural edition in 2021.

 

May 2

The Wall of Hope Ceremony

 

One of the most moving and symbolic events that kick off the Flower Festival in Madeira. It usually takes place on the first weekend of May, and in 2026 it is scheduled for Saturday May 2, at the main square of Funchal - Praça do Município.

The main characters of this ceremony are thousands of children dressed in white, who carry single flowers in their hands. They symbolically fill a specially prepared, long structure with them, creating a colorful and fragrant "wall" from live flowers. This act carries a deep message - it is a plea from the youngest for peace, friendship among nations, and a better and more colorful world, free from conflict. This incredibly photogenic and emotional event perfectly captures the spirit of the entire festival, combining the beauty of nature with hope for a better future.

 

from May 3 to 17

The Grand Allegorical Flower Parade

 

is undoubtedly the climax and the most spectacular event of the Flower Festival in Madeira. In 2026, it is scheduled for Sunday

 

        

 

May 3

 

On that day, the main artery of Funchal, Avenida do Mar, transforms into a stage for an unforgettable spectacle, featuring thousands of dancers and artists. Participants parade in fancy, colorful costumes inspired by the island's flora, and the streets fill with the sounds of music and the scents of flowers. An inseparable element of the parade are richly decorated, allegorical floats, often covered with thousands of live petals, creating true, moving masterpieces. It is worth adding that in 2026, the organizers decided to introduce changes to the logistics of the event to improve the comfort of both participants and spectators.

May 8

 

The Solidarity Wall Ceremony an event with a deep social dimension that has accompanied the Flower Festival in Madeira for several years, complementing the well-known Wall of Hope Ceremony. While the latter is dedicated to children, the Wall of Solidarity engages adults, often those in difficult life situations. In 2026, this ceremony will take place on May 8. During the ceremony, several hundred beneficiaries from various social assistance institutions, such as care homes, associations, and universities for older adults, come together to create a colorful installation by arranging fresh flowers on a specially prepared structure. This is a symbolic gesture that combines the beauty of tradition with universal values such as solidarity, integration, and the dignity of every human being. As the organizers emphasize, it is a manifestation of "unity between the beauty of our traditions and the human values of our identity." In 2025, around 670 people from 38 institutions participated in the event, which was enhanced by a performance from a local folk group. The Wall of Solidarity is a beautiful example of how the festival engages all generations, making it a truly inclusive celebration.

 

May 9-16

Performances of the "Flower Groups"

 

is a unique opportunity to closely admire the participants of the famous Cortejo Alegórico in an intimate, static setting. In 2026, this event is scheduled to take place from May 9 to 17at the Heliporto space at Cais 8 in Funchal.

For nine days, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, the groups participating in the parade showcase their dazzling, handmade costumes and specially prepared choreographic routines. This vibrant presentation is a true celebration of flowers, beauty, and joy, and its uniqueness lies in the fact that the audience can watch the dancers up close, admiring the intricate details of their costumes and drawing energy from the performances. Admission to this colorful spectacle is free, but the number of places is limited, and tickets can be collected at the tourist information point on Avenida Arriaga.

 

May 10

Madeira Flower Classic Car Parade

 

is one of the most charming and elegant attractions of the Madeira Flower Festival. The event is scheduled for Sunday May 10, 2026.That afternoon, between 4:30 PM and 5:30 PM, the main arteries of Funchal are filled with vintage vehicles—from cars and motorcycles to classic buses. Each of the approximately 150-200 vehicles is decorated with a floral arrangement, which, combined with the flowery costumes of the participants and the musical accompaniment, creates a unique, nostalgic atmosphere.

 

         

 

The parade starts on Avenida Francisco Sá Carneiro and then leads through Avenida do Mar e das Comunidades Madeirenses, Praça da Autonomia, and back to the Harvey Foster Roundabout. After the parade, all vehicles can be admired up close during a static exhibition on Avenida Francisco Sá Carneiro, which will last until 6:30 PM. Admission to the event is free, and if someone would like to ensure a great view from a reserved spot along the parade route, paid tickets for specially prepared stands are also available.

 

from May 14 to 17

Flower Concerts

 

are a series of intimate musical events that enhance the program of the Madeira Flower Festival. In 2026, they are scheduled from May 14 to 17. Their main goal is not only to provide artistic experiences but also to decentralize the festival by moving some attractions outside of central Funchal.

Concerts take place in throughout the island, such as Funchal, Calheta, and Santana, allowing the audience to enjoy music amidst the lush nature of Madeira. As the organizers emphasize, these musical moments unfold in a unique atmosphere where the audience—both tourists and locals—can savor high-quality performances against the breathtaking backdrop surrounded by the diversity of Madeira's flora. Admission to these events is usually free for all interested.

 

 

May 16

Madeira Flower Collection (fashion show)

 

is a unique event that combines the world of fashion with the floral theme of the entire festival. In 2026, the fashion show is scheduled for May 16-17 in the picturesque setting of the Quinta Magnólia in Funchal.

The aim of this project is to promote the regional fashion sector by involving local designers who create original collections inspired by the beauty of Madeira's flowers. The event adds a contemporary and glamorous dimension to one of the island's major tourist attractions, offering the audience a unique blend of applied art and nature in an extraordinary garden setting. It is an excellent opportunity to see how the richness of Madeira's flora translates into the language of fashion and design.

 

 

from May 21 to 24

Floral Installations

 

This event serves as the artistic culmination of the festival, showcasing sculptures and floral carpets located in the public spaces of Funchal. The diversity of Madeira's flora has significantly contributed to the emergence of these artistic manifestations, which combine the beauty of flowers with characteristic elements of Madeiran tradition and culture. The installations can be admired including. in the vicinity of the flower exhibition, and their creation is a true work of art that transforms the city into a fairy-tale garden for a few days.

 

 

           

 

from May 22 to 24

Madeira Classic Car Revival

 

is one of the most elegant and distinctive events accompanying the Flower Festival in Madeira, organized by Clube de Automóveis Clássicos da Madeira. In 2026, the event will take place from May 22 to 24 at Praça do Povo in Funchal.

This unique meeting with top-level automotive culture transforms the island's capital into a living exhibition of automotive history for a few days. In the 2025 edition, as many as 567 vehicles– from vintage cars to motorcycles and bicycles. Among the gems were rarities such as 1936 Bugatti Type 57 Stelvio Gangloff, a replica of Benz Dreirad from 1886 (considered the oldest car in the world) or Olda– a Portuguese racing car from 1954.

In 2026, the organizers have prepared many attractions for visitors. One of the most charming is the competition "Vestir à Época" (Dress in the Style of the Era), which will take place on May 23 at Praça do Povo. Participants dressed in costumes from past eras help recreate the magical atmosphere of bygone days. A new feature is the dynamic rides on a closed section of Avenida do Mar, where vehicles showcase themselves in motion, as well as "we beat the classics"– a unique opportunity to ride in a vintage car as a passenger. The highlight is Rampa dos Barreiros– a mountain race on a closed route of about 2.5 km, in which several dozen classic vehicles participate.

 

        

 

Atlantic Festival Madeira 2026

 

The main attraction of the festival is Saturday pyromusical shows as part of the International Fireworks Competition. Every Saturday in June (June 6, 13, 20, and 27, 2026), professional pyrotechnic teams from various countries present their shows, competing for prestigious trophies. The 20-minute displays are synchronized with music and illuminate the Funchal bay, creating an unforgettable spectacle. The winner of the competition later has the honor of preparing the famous New Year's Eve fireworks display in Madeira.

However, the festival is much more than just fireworks. Every weekend (from Friday to Sunday), events called "Summer Sunsets" take place in the garden at Praça do Povo – evening concerts by local artists combined with tastings of traditional Madeiran products, providing the perfect opportunity to relax with music and regional delicacies. Additionally, the program includes Regional Arts Week (Semana das Artes) showcasing the works of young artists, multimedia and circus performances, as well as Bread Fair organized by the Lions Club Funchal, where local baked goods can be sampled.

For those who want to experience this show in a unique way, boat trips are organized in Funchal bay, from where fireworks can be admired from the perspective of the ocean, along with reflections of lights dancing on the waves. It is an unforgettable experience that combines the magic of the displays with the atmosphere of a maritime adventure.from June 5 to 28.

 

Celebrations in downtown Funchal

June 6, 13, 20, 27

 

International Fireworks Competition in Madeira

This unique spectacle involves a competition among professional pyrotechnic teams from various countries, presenting spectacular, 20-minute shows synchronized with music. The fireworks illuminate the Funchal bay, creating an unforgettable spectacle against the backdrop of the ocean. The winner of the competition later has the honor of preparing the famous New Year's Eve fireworks display in Madeira, which is a significant distinction in the world of pyrotechnics.

 

For those who wish to experience this spectacle in a unique way, boat trips are organized in Funchal bay, from where fireworks can be admired from the perspective of the ocean, along with reflections of lights dancing on the waves. It is an unforgettable experience that combines the magic of the displays with the atmosphere of a maritime adventure. Classics in Magnolia July 25-26.

 

 

Madeira Wine Festival

from August 27 to September 13

is one of the most symbolic cultural and ethnographic events on the island, taking place at the end of summer during the grape harvest.

The festival unfolds in two main spaces, offering different experiences. In the island's capital, Funchal, spectacular allegorical shows of light, sound, and music related to wine and grape harvesting take place. At Praça do Povo, a space called Madeira Wine Lounge, is created, where, in a modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere, one can taste wines from various producing municipalities and regional delicacies, accompanied by a variety of live music.

Meanwhile, in the parish of Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, located about 12 km from Funchal, one can experience authentic grape harvesting rituals. This is a unique opportunity to participate in traditional grape picking, join grape harvest parades, observe (or even take part in) grape stomping, and learn all the rituals associated with the production of this noble drink. The program also includes special events organized by producers, such as visits to vineyards and lodges (cellars), workshops, or themed concerts in the vineyards at sunset.

 

from August 23 to 27

European Folklore Week

 

is an international event that gathers folklore groups not only from Madeira and continental Portugal but also from other European countries. For several days, colorful presentations take place in the auditorium of the Municipal Gardens in Funchal, where groups showcase their native dances, songs, and traditional folk costumes. The European Folklore Week is a great opportunity to experience the richness and diversity of European cultural heritage in one place, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Madeira's capital. Admission to the events is usually free, allowing both tourists and locals to freely participate in this vibrant celebration of folklore.

 

Would you like to know details about other cultural events in Madeira in 2026?

 

from August 31 to September 13

Madeira Wine Salon

 

is the central point and one of the most important attractions of the Madeira Wine Festival. This unique place creates a cosmopolitan and contemporary atmosphere related to the consumption of Madeiran wines, in contrast to the more traditional grape harvest celebrations in rural areas. In the salon, 12 regional producers present their offerings, and guests can taste wines from various wine-producing municipalities and regional delicacies. The experience is complemented by carefully selected musical accompaniment that enhances the enjoyment of feasting and tasting in the heart of Madeira's capital.

 

September 5

Live Harvest in Estreito de Câmara de Lobos

 

is a unique event taking place in Estreito de Câmara de Lobos – a town famous for its terraced vineyards, mainly growing the Tinta Negra grape, which forms the basis of the famous Madeira wine. On Saturday morning, the attention of guests and locals turns to where live harvests are held in one of the Madeiran estates.

Participants can observe, and sometimes even take part in, the traditional hand-picking of grapes. Then, a colorful ethnographic parade (cortejo etnográfico) takes place through the streets of the town, featuring numerous folklore and ethnographic groups showcasing traditional costumes and rituals related to grape harvesting. The highlight is the reconstruction of grape stomping in a traditional press (lagar), where anyone interested can participate – it is a free attraction that allows one to literally "feel" the taste of Madeiran tradition. The event is accompanied by a joyful atmosphere, live music, and the opportunity to taste regional delicacies.

The grape harvest in Estreito is more than just a collection – it’s a time for sharing, returning to roots, and celebrating Madeira’s rich winemaking heritage. A visit to this picturesque town at this time of year immerses you in the authentic wine culture of the island.

 

 

September 5, 6, 12, and 13

Concerts in the vineyards

 

is an intimate series of musical events that are an integral part of the Madeira Wine Festival (Festa do Vinho Madeira).

 

The table below presents the detailed program of the event in 2026:

 

 

This unique event combines live music with wine tasting in an authentic, winemaking environment. Concerts take place in various locations around the region – in picturesque quintas (country estates), vineyards, and the Wine and Vineyard Museum in Arco de São Jorge. The organizers have scheduled them for the afternoon hours, after the peak heat, when the aromas of ripening grapes become most intense, and one concert is particularly at dawn.

Participants can not only listen to performances by local artists representing various musical genres (from vocals with piano to traditional Madeiran instruments and fado), but also taste fortified and pristine wines produced on-site. Due to the intimate nature of the event, the number of seats for concerts is limited.

 

Columbus Festival – Porto Santo Island

September 17 – 20

 

is a unique event that transports visitors back to the Age of Great Discoveries every year.

The festival commemorates the famous sailor’s stay in the Madeira archipelago. Christopher Columbus was connected to this place not only through sugar trade but also through his marriage to Filipa Moniz, the daughter of Bartolomeu Perestrelo – the first captain-donor of Porto Santo Island, where their son Diogo was born.

During the four days of the festival, the streets of Vila Baleira fill with an extraordinary atmosphere. Residents and guests can admire the atrical performances, concerts, and also participate in a historical parade reenacting Columbus and his crew's arrival at the city's waterfront. One of the main attractions is a realistic 16th-century fair, and artists in period costumes continuously move through the streets, offering acrobatic and juggling performances. This event is loved by both tourists and locals, providing a lively history lesson and an opportunity for a literal journey back in time.

 

                                                

Nature Festival in Madeira

from October 6 to 11

 

is an exciting event dedicated to nature sports enthusiasts, taking place at the beginning of October.

It is one of the newer, but already well-established festivals in Madeira’s event calendar. It offers a wide range of activities on land, in the air, and at sea, tailored to different age groups. Participants can choose from many attractions – from leisurely walks along the famous levadas (which almost encircle the entire island), mountain biking on forest trails, to more extreme experiences like waterfall descents in the mountains on the northern coast. The festival pays tribute to the natural heritage of the archipelago, including the UNESCO-listed laurel forest (Laurisilva).

In the center of Funchal, there are also accompanying events such as a photography exhibition, a small typical religious event, demonstrations of regional gastronomy, and performances by folklore groups. It’s an excellent opportunity to discover the most beautiful corners of Madeira – from the coast to mountain peaks – while engaging in various sports and enjoying contact with nature.

 

Check the detailed Calendar of cultural events on the island of Madeira in 2026

 

 

 

 

YEAR 2027

 

Christmas and New Year’s celebrationsfrom December 1 – January 10, 2027.

 

General lighting of the amphitheater in Funchal

from December 1 – January 10, 2027.

 

Christmas exhibitions in the center of Funchal

December 31

 

New Year’s Eve fireworks

January 5, 2027.

 

“Three Kings’ Songs” – Municipal Gardens

Carnival 2027 in Madeira

 

 

 

Entertainment in the center of Funchal

February 5

 

5 lutego

Carnival of Solidarity and Children's Carnival

 

 

February 6

Allegorical carnival parade

 

February 9

Slapstick parade

 

 

FestivalFlowers 2027 in Madeira

 

 

April 29 – May 23

Celebrations in downtown Funchal

 

April 30 and May 1

Palheiro Gardens Golf Classic

 

May 1

Ceremony of the Wall of Hope

 

May 2 and 16

Great allegorical flower parade

 

May 7

Ceremony of the Wall of Solidarity

 

May 8 and 15

Performances by "flower groups"

 

May 9

Madeira Flower Classic car parade

 

from May 13 to 16

Flower concerts

 

May 15

Madeira Flower Collection (fashion show)

 

from May 20 to 23

Flower installations

 

from May 21 to 23

Madeira Classic Car Revival 

 

 

Atlantic Festival Madeira 2027

 

from June 4 to 27

Celebrations in downtown Funchal

 

June 5, 12, 19, and 26

International Fireworks Competition in Madeira

 

Classics in Magnolia

July 31 and August 1

(Note: last weekend before theMadeira Wine Rally))

 

Madeira Wine Festival

from August 22 to September 12

 

from August 22 to 26

European Folklore Week

 

from August 26 to September 12

Madeira Wine Lounge

 

September 4

Live Harvest in Estreito de Câmara de Lobos

 

September 4, 5, 11 and 12

Concerts in the vineyards

 

Columbus Festival – Porto Santo Island 

from September 23 to 26

 

Nature Festival in Madeira 

from October 5 to 10

 

Christmas and New Year celebrationsfrom December 1 to January 9

 

from 1st December to 9th January

General lighting of the amphitheater in Funchal

 

from December 1 to January 9

Christmas exhibitions in downtown Funchal

 

December 31

New Year's Eve fireworks

 

January 5

"Songs of the Three Kings" – Municipal Gardens

 

 

Carnival 2028 in Madeira