Madeira's Carnival: A Colorful Celebration
Garden island on the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira is a destination appreciated for its majestic nature, its wild mountains, its picturesque villages, but also for its carnival. For two weeks, the festivities are in full swing and the island takes on the appearance of Rio de Janeiro.
One of the most popular local festivals
What if you took advantage of the Carnival period to discover the famous flower island?
The Madeira Carnival, which officially begins on the Friday before Mardi Gras and ends on Carnival Tuesday, is undoubtedly one of the most cherished celebrations in the hearts of Madeirans.
If you want to discover the local traditions and festivities, it is at this time of the year that you must go to the Flower Island for a colorful stay!
During the days leading up to Mardi Gras, Funchal vibrates to the rhythm of the samba and turns into a little Rio de Janeiro!
A period of intense activity
During the Madeira Carnival, the festivities contaminate the whole island with intense animation.
On the first Friday, the capital Funchal wakes up to the sound of philharmonic bandas and carnival marches that enliven the lower city.
On Saturday night, it is the turn of the great allegorical procession to take to the streets. After traveling a route through the city, the procession gathers in the Municipio Square where a ball is held.
Mardi Gras marks the highlight of the festivities in Funchal: in the afternoon, irreverent jokers march in the Jester's Procession.
Throughout Carnival, the streets of Funchal are lit up and flooded with music. In addition to the festive atmosphere, masks and confetti, many events are organized in the streets of the city (with shows in the Plaza del Município) but also in clubs and bars.
Edition 2023
This year's Madeira Carnival takes place from 15 to 26 February 2023..
This Carnival, punctuated by dances and parades with colorful costumes, has for highlights the great allegorical procession on Saturday and the Mardi Gras parade!
On the program this year, don't miss:
February 17: Children's Carnival and Carnival Solidaire
February 18: Carnival Parade
February 9 to 16: The 'Festa dos Compadres' marks the opening of the Carnival season in Madeira, a tradition that goes back more than 50 years
