Nearest beach:
beach at 2000.0 Metres
Car:
recommended
Christmas and New Year celebrations (November 23 to January 6, 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.
In mid-November we start preparations for making Funchal a real, life-size Christmas crib.
The streets are decorated with lights of all colours and sizes, with designs allusive to the island and the festive season.
In December, the squares are decked with flowers. Poinsettias, holly and lady’s slipper orchids all help to brighten up the city’s streets. And then there are the Christmas carols ringing out in the streets as if by magic and creating a real festive spirit.