The Madeiran culture, like that of Portugal, is dominated by a plethora of religious and secular feast days and holidays. As the capital of the island, Funchal hosts many of these celebrations.

Events Calendar 2009:

Wine Festival: 4th to 6th September 2009

Recalling the social and economic importance of Madeira wine, the Madeira Wine Festival is held in September during the grape harvest, going back to the population’s old customs since the island was first settled.

Christmas and New Years celebrations: 30th November 2009  - 06th January 2010  

Christmas traditions are deeply rooted in the Madeirans’ habits and are combined with the New Year celebrations in a varied programme of cultural, folk and artistic events, beginning in November, when the lights are switched on in the centre of Funchal, lasting all through December and only ending on Twelfth Night.

Further information will be published nearer to the date.