Funchal is set to become the capital of Madeira’s Carnival starting tomorrow, Wednesday, and continuing through the 22nd. The festivities will kick off with the opening of the Mercadinho at the Central Square of Avenida Arriaga.
On Friday, the vibrant Carnival for Children will take place at 11:00 AM, featuring 1,400 young performers. Later, at 2:30 PM, the city will come alive with the Solidarity Carnival, which will unite around 500 participants from various institutions.
Saturday will showcase the grand allegorical parade, with 1,700 revelers spread across 14 groups. As is tradition, the Carnival Trapalhão will be held on Tuesday, with sign-ups open that day from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM on Avenida Sá Carneiro. This year’s event introduces a new prize for the most sustainable costume within the various accolades.
Approximately 5,000 individuals are engaged in the carnival programming, which was presented this afternoon at the Museum of Cruzes.
In terms of tourism, Regional Secretary for Tourism, Environment, and Culture, Eduardo Jesus, reported a hotel occupancy rate of 88.2%, slightly surpassing last year’s figures. This Saturday, the Port of Funchal will also see the arrival of two cruise ships, bringing additional visitors who are expected to join the parade.
Weather forecasts predict a mix of sunshine and occasional clouds until Tuesday, although Eduardo Jesus noted that conditions can change. The event program is diverse, featuring activities across several museums.
With an engaging lineup ready to unfold, the Carnival in Funchal promises to be a vibrant celebration filled with joy, creativity, and community spirit, further enhancing the island’s cultural landscape.