These festive traditions are celebrated across the island on different dates between December 9th and 23rd, an opportunity for both locals and tourists to experience Madeira’s authentic Christmas spirit. The popular Christmas Market Nights are one of the Madeira Islands main highlights for this holiday season.
The most iconic event is the Night at the Farmers’ Market (Mercado dos Lavradores) in Funchal, held every year, on December 23rd. On this lively evening, people from all over the island come to the capital to do their Christmas shopping. The market and nearby stalls are filled with colourful displays of fresh fruit, vegetables, wheat pots, holly, and many other items connected to Madeira’s Christmas traditions
As night falls, the celebration reaches its peak in the fish market square, where Christmas carols fill the air. The festivities continue until dawn, creating a warm and memorable night. It’s a great opportunity to meet old friends, share stories from the year, and enjoy homemade liqueurs and the traditional carne de vinha d’alhos(pork in wine and garlic) sandwiches.
