Spend Your Holidays in Madeira Island: A Guide to an Unforgettable Vacation Experience

You may already be aware that Portugal's Madeira Island is fast becoming the hottest new destination for travelers worldwide. This skyrocketing popularity comes as no surprise thanks to the idyllic features that this magical locale offers, including both stunning mountains and sandy beaches which can be enjoyed year-round amid Madeira´s pleasantly mild climate, and much more. What you may not be aware of yet is just how special the Christmas and New Year holiday season is in Madeira. There are numerous reasons why vacationers across the globe choose to flock to this Portuguese paradise at the end —and beginning — of each year, and after reading this article, you will surely have it on your bucket list of holiday destinations as well. 

So, why is Madeira so beloved, especially in December and early January? We’re glad you asked! Here is what you can expect when traveling to Madeira during these months of celebration.

1. Perfect December and January Weather in Madeira

While most destinations experience plummeting temperatures and far too chilly conditions during winter months, the weather in Madeira offers mostly sunny skies and pleasant temperatures year-round, with the average temperatures hovering around 20 degrees Celsius during December and January in particular. This is especially great news for avid outdoor enthusiasts, as this means that they are free to enjoy all the outdoor activities they want under the Madeira sunshine, without freezing! Among the most popular pastimes here are lovely Levada walks and epic hiking trails, and that’s just to start.

2. Captivating Christmas Decor and Merry Markets

When it comes to celebrating the Christmas season, you could safely say that Madeira knows how to do it in style! Madeira Island´s capital city of Funchal gets especially dolled up during the Christmas season — its streets, houses, and even palm trees, are strewn with dazzling lights as far as the eye can see. If that doesn’t put you in the holiday spirit, we simply don’t know what will!

The Funchal Marina is especially a favorite among visitors and tourists alike during this time, as it features a unique Christmas tree that towers over the nearby harbor and fun, shining stars that you can even sit on! Also, it is not to be missed for viewing epic Christmas decor in Madeira.  Head to Aldeia de Natal, the idyllic Christmas Village that’s set up in Jardim Municipal Park each year, or stroll down iconic Avenida Arriaga street, being sure to make a stop at the popular Mercadinho de Natal Christmas Market. Because there’s nothing that will get you in the Christmas spirit like wandering among the market´s wooden cottages while pursuing local wares, sampling festive fare, and sipping the famed beverages Madeira is known for a variety of Poncha, or Ginja, a yummy cherry liqueur that’s served in a cute chocolate cup.

Speaking of markets, Noite do Mercado is an entire night (literally translated as “Market Night”) in Funchal, and it is one of the biggest events of the Christmas season in Madeira. Occurring on December 23 each year in the Old Town area of Funchal, it is a place to go to be swept up in the Christmas spirit, with shopping galore, Christmas carols, and just communal revelry that will feel a part of the local culture.

3. Live Performances and Traditional Celebrations

You will also find live performances galore in Madeira during the holidays, with Funchal especially being the proverbial Mecca for live music concerts and other traditional offerings. Among these unique seasonal offerings are the Presépios (also known as Christmas cribs, or Portugal´s version of Christmas Nativity scenes), which give a nod to the region’s deeply rooted Catholic faith. One unique feature that differs from other scenes you may be used to is the fact that 

the figures in the nativities are clad in local Madeiran attire, and the creches themselves are multiple-tiered and filled with vibrant greens and exotic local flowers — set up almost like a tiny version of Madeira itself.

4. Midnight Masses and More

On Christmas Eve (known as “Véspera de Natal“), a tradition in Madeira is that after a lovely feast is enjoyed with family, gifts are exchanged, and then everyone heads to Missa do Galo, or Midnight Mass. Fun fact: The name “Missa do Galo”  is translated as “Rooster’s Mass”, deriving this name from a folk legend attributing Christmas Eve as the night when the rooster crowed at midnight to herald Christ's birth. While Christmas Eve is the biggest and most known, many more holy masses lead up to this one: nine in total starting from December 16 — the number of which symbolizes the months that Mary was pregnant with Jesus. To celebrate each, you will often see locals marching through the streets wearing traditional costumes and performing music. It's truly a sight to behold.

5. Fabulous, Festive Food

As fitting with Portugal's famous reputation for being unmatched in its divine cuisine, Madeira features some delectable edible treasures specifically for celebrating the Christmas season. Just a few of the special and unique dishes that you can look forward to enjoying while spending the holidays in Madeira include Carne vinha D’alhos, Perù assado com batatas assadas, Bolo Rei, Bolo de Mel, Broas de Mel, and Arroz Dolce. Once New Year’s Eve rolls around, the entree of choice in Madeira is traditionally Canja de galinha, a yummy Portuguese chicken soup.

6. New Year’s Eve in Madeira Island

New Year's Eve in Madeira Island is celebrated with one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in the world, a tradition that has earned recognition in the Guinness World Records. The entire island participates in this grand event, with fireworks launched from multiple points, creating a magnificent show visible from various locations. The display is set against the backdrop of Madeira's stunning natural landscape, including its mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, enhancing the visual spectacle. This event is a major highlight for both locals and tourists, making Madeira a popular destination for ringing in the New Year.

Are you planning your Christmas and New Year's getaway and considering Madeira Island? Booking early is crucial for this popular holiday destination. To enhance your experience, we have crafted exclusive package deals that are both enticing and value-packed. These specially curated packages are designed to elevate your holiday experience, ensuring a memorable and delightful stay during one of the most festive times of the year in Madeira.