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:

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.