Regional Festivals

Even though the events calendar is rich at any time of the year, the traditional festivals do multiply in the warmer months in the islands of Madeira and Porto Santo.

Combining a religious side with profane fun, the traditional festivities are one of the main attractions during the summer in Madeira, where the biggest festivals are in Monte and Ponta Delgada. These festivals are popular street celebrations focused on socializing and on the promotion of regional traditions and religious experiences.

When a festival takes place, the streets are festooned with colorful flags, lights and handcrafted flowers. During the day, a Mass is celebrated and a procession is organized. They are followed by more joyous revelries consisting of popular music, musical bands, folk dances, stands selling food and drinks, and samplings of the regional cuisine. These activities are joined by people of all ages and last until dawn.