Every year on the last weekend of August, from the 29th to the 30th, the town of Machico comes alive for the Festival of the Blessed Sacrament (Festa do Santíssimo Sacramento), a deeply rooted tradition celebrated across Madeira Island and Porto Santo. But in Machico, there’s something extra special: the Festa dos Fachos, a fiery and unforgettable spectacle that lights up the night.
Originally, during the 16th to 18th centuries, bonfires and flares were used as warning signals against pirate and privateer attacks. These lights, set off from high points like Pico do Facho, alerted locals to mobilise for defence. This site played a key role in maritime surveillance and defence during earlier centuries, serving not only Machico but also establishing a direct line of connection with the island of Porto Santo and other important vantage points across Madeira, like Pico da Água (Caniço), Pico da Cruz (São Martinho), and Cabo Girão (Câmara de Lobos). As piracy waned, the tradition transformed into a symbolic ritual. Since the early 20th century, this event has dazzled both locals and visitors.
On Saturday night, 29 August, after Mass around 21:30, the haunting sound of the búzio (a conch shell) echoes through the valley. It lasts for about 30 minutes, marking the moment when the fachos—massive flaming structures—are set ablaze. The hillside of Pico do Facho and other high points around Machico Valley glow with light as these large symbolic figures, shaped like crosses, a chalice, fish, boats, and other icons of Machico’s past, burn brightly against the night sky.
Down in the city square, Largo da Praça, the celebration continues with live music, local food, and plenty of drinks. It’s a joyful mix of tradition, faith, and community spirit—a magical night.
You can also watch this spectacle in real time via our two live-streaming webcams: Port of Machico and Forum Machico Cam.