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.

500th Anniversary of Funchal

Through August 2008, Funchal will celebrate 500 years as the capital city of Madeira. Reid's Palace is delighted to welcome you to Madeira for all the events planned throughout the year. 

For more information please click here to visit the official website of the anniversary.

Events Calendar 2008:

• Flower Festival: 3rd to 6th April 2008
  
  Every April, Madeira’s flower festival fills the main streets of Funchal. It is a breathtaking festival with a street parade and floats, through the streets of Funchal, exhibiting and perfuming the air with a multiplicity of floral species of the island.  

• Atlantic Firework Festival: 1st - 30th June 2008
  
  The Festival of the Atlantic is an important event that combines entertainment and culture. It has three components: the Madeira Music Festival, the International Fireworks Competition and performances by philharmonic bands in the city centre.

• Wine Festival: 5th to 7th September 2008
  
  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.
  
  Click here for further information

• XV Canaries International Regatta: 2nd - 07th November 2008  
  
  ANM and the Empresa Municipal 500 anos Funchal in partnership with the Real Club Náutico de Gran Canárias have organised the XV Canaries International Regatta - Madeira/ 500 years of the city of Funchal.
  
  This regatta will leave Porto de Las Palmas on the next 2nd September for the city of Funchal on a journey of 290 nautical miles, and takes part in the commemoration of the 500 years of the city of Funchal as well as in the festivities of the 100 years of Real Club Náutico de Gran Canárias.
  
  

• Christmas and New Years celebrations: 16th November 2008  - 06th January 2009  
  
  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.
  
  Click here for further information