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.
August begins with the exciting finale of the Madeira Rally(Rali da Madeira) on 1 August, while Machico Gastronomic Week, which began on 31 July, continues until 9 August. If you are looking to sample authentic eastern Madeiran cuisine, then Machico is the place to be. Also continuing into August is São Vicente‘s Nossa Senhora da Saúde (Arraial dos Lameiros Festival), which runs until 3 August.
Madeiratravel guide
From 5 to 15 August, Monte will be holding its traditional Nossa Senhora do Monte Festival. This popular event begins with traditional Novenas/Masses (5th to 13th), with the main celebration following on the 14th and 15th, combining religious observance with live entertainment, fun, and food. This is a must-see event.
Santacurtas – Santa Cruz will be showcasing a myriad of short films at its Friday night Film Festival evenings 7, 14, 21 and 28 August.
Taking a slightly more relaxed feel, the Black Scabbardfish Gastronomic Festival (Festa Gastronómica do Peixe Espada Preto) from 6 to 9 August in Câmara de Lobos promises not only to be entertaining but shows the versatility of the islands most famous fish as well as giving visitors a glimpse behind the scenes of Madeira’s fishing industry.
‘Arts Camacha‘ will be held in Camacha from 7 to 13 August, with the parish celebrating its local traditions and customs, including folklore, embroidery and musical entertainment.
Festival A’NORTE brings four days of music, joy, and vibrant energy to Santana, Madeira Island from 13 to 16 August. A lively summer experience for everyone.
The Caniço Gastronomy Festival takes place in the town square from 14 to 20 August, comprising musical entertainment and plenty of food stalls, so there is something for everyone to enjoy.
On 19 and 26 August, Estalagem da Ponta do Sol will host another edition of “Concertos L,” a series of concerts that blend traditional and contemporary musical styles with Portuguese and international music.
The Ponta do Sol Traditional and Popular Culture Week, taking place from 20 to 22 August, feature cultural traditions, folk music, and entertainment, including the International Folklore Festival on 22 August. Dancing holds immense significance in Madeiran culture, blending influences from mainland traditions, Moorish slaves, Arab melodies, and European elements. The festival fills Ponta do Sol with vibrant music, singing, and dancing from local and international folklore groups, along with traditional food and drink.
Funchal celebrates its day in style on 21 August as the city centre revels in its history and has fun at the same time. The main performances will take place in Avenida do Mar and Avenida Arriaga, and as always there will be plenty of good entertainment peppered with a few official events.
If you are planning a trip to Porto Santo, 21 August is ideal because the island celebrates its own Wine Harvest Festival and although most of the grapes produced are for eating, Porto Santo has created some lovely table wines.
North of the island, the popular Festival of São Vicente, held from 22 to 30 August, features a weeklong event filled with activities and entertainment. Among the highlights is the thrilling Super Trial 4X4 São Vicente (22–23 August), where participants from both local and mainland Portugal showcase their skills in tackling challenging terrain.
This is a must-see if you would like to do something different. On 23 August, Funchal will be hosting the Madeiran Traditional Canoes Regatta. These fishing vessels sail along a 2.5 km course from Funchal Harbour to Barreirinha in the Old Town.
The Funchal Municipal Gardens Auditorium will host European Folklore Week from 23 to 27 August, commemorating six centuries of culture, dance, and music. Madeira’s unique folklore, combined with local and European groups, promises an exciting week of lively performances.
The highlight of the month is, of course, the Madeira Wine Festival, which takes place both in Câmara de Lobos and Funchal from 23 August to 13 September. This iconic celebration has Funchal adorned with all things grape and wine-related, giving visitors the chance to experience a little piece of Madeira’s wine history.
The Festival in Honour of Our Lady of Help (Nossa Senhora da Ajuda), held 28–30 August, brings people together with delicious local food, lively entertainment, and a joyful atmosphere that celebrates tradition and community spirit.
On 29–30 August, Machico lights up with the vibrant Festa do Santíssimo Sacramento (Blessed Sacrament) and the dramatic Festa dos Fachos (29). Witness fiery torch displays, live music, local food, and heartfelt traditions in a spectacular weekend of celebration and culture.
From 31 August to 13 September,the Madeira Wine Lounge at Praça do Povo in Funchal invites you to sample the wide variety of fortified wines, table wines, liqueurs, and still wines that the island produces. Visitors can also enjoy local gastronomy and live music, making it a charming and festive experience.
All that’s left to say is ‘let’s get the party started!’
The 39th Machico Gastronomic Week returns from 31 July to 9 August 2026, celebrating local food, culture, and community spirit. The square in the centre of Machico will be filled with food stalls, music, and traditional Madeiran dishes prepared with pride.
City& Local Guides
To help everyone join in, the Machico Town Hall (Câmara Municipal de Machico) is offering free transport to the Food Festival, departing from the parishes of Caniçal, Água de Pena, and Porto da Cruz, with the route passing through Ribeira de Machico.
Whether you are heading there for the seafood, a grilled espetada, or simply to enjoy a night among friends and neighbours, this is the place to be. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming—perfect for families and anyone who enjoys a true taste of Madeira.
This year’s edition promises even more excitement: live cooking shows, a cocktail festival, and evening concerts by popular Portuguese artists, folklore groups, and DJs energizing the seafront.
Come hungry and ready to relax by the sea with good food and great company. To see what’s going on during the festivities, check out our live webcam at Fórum Machico for a view of the event in real time.
August begins with the exciting finale of the Madeira Rally(Rali da Madeira) on 1 August, while Machico Gastronomic Week, which began on 31 July, continues until 9 August. If you are looking to sample authentic eastern Madeiran cuisine, then Machico is the place to be. Also continuing into August is São Vicente‘s Nossa Senhora da Saúde (Arraial dos Lameiros Festival), which runs until 3 August.
Astronomy
From 5 to 15 August, Monte will be holding its traditional Nossa Senhora do Monte Festival. This popular event begins with traditional Novenas/Masses (5th to 13th), with the main celebration following on the 14th and 15th, combining religious observance with live entertainment, fun, and food. This is a must-see event.
Santacurtas – Santa Cruz will be showcasing a myriad of short films at its Friday night Film Festival evenings 7, 14, 21 and 28 August.
Taking a slightly more relaxed feel, the Black Scabbardfish Gastronomic Festival (Festa Gastronómica do Peixe Espada Preto) from 6 to 9 August in Câmara de Lobos promises not only to be entertaining but shows the versatility of the islands most famous fish as well as giving visitors a glimpse behind the scenes of Madeira’s fishing industry.
‘Arts Camacha‘ will be held in Camacha from 7 to 13 August, with the parish celebrating its local traditions and customs, including folklore, embroidery and musical entertainment.
Festival A’NORTE brings four days of music, joy, and vibrant energy to Santana, Madeira Island from 13 to 16 August. A lively summer experience for everyone.
The Caniço Gastronomy Festival takes place in the town square from 14 to 20 August, comprising musical entertainment and plenty of food stalls, so there is something for everyone to enjoy.
On 19 and 26 August, Estalagem da Ponta do Sol will host another edition of “Concertos L,” a series of concerts that blend traditional and contemporary musical styles with Portuguese and international music.
The Ponta do Sol Festivities, taking place from 20 ugust to 8 September, feature concerts, cultural traditions, music, sports, and entertainment, including the International Folklore Festival on 23 August. Dancing holds immense significance in Madeiran culture, blending influences from mainland traditions, Moorish slaves, Arab melodies, and European elements. The festival fills Ponta do Sol with vibrant music, singing, and dancing from local and international folklore groups, along with traditional food and drink.
Funchal celebrates its day in style on 21 August as the city centre revels in its history and has fun at the same time. The main performances will take place in Avenida do Mar and Avenida Arriaga, and as always there will be plenty of good entertainment peppered with a few official events.
If you are planning a trip to Porto Santo, 21 August is ideal because the island celebrates its own Wine Harvest Festival and although most of the grapes produced are for eating, Porto Santo has created some lovely table wines.
North of the island, the popular Festival of São Vicente, held from 22 to 30 August, features a weeklong event filled with activities and entertainment. Among the highlights is the thrilling Super Trial 4X4 São Vicente (22–23 August), where participants from both local and mainland Portugal showcase their skills in tackling challenging terrain.
This is a must-see if you would like to do something different. On 23 August, Funchal will be hosting the Madeiran Traditional Canoes Regatta. These fishing vessels sail along a 2.5 km course from Funchal Harbour to Barreirinha in the Old Town.
The Funchal Municipal Gardens Auditorium will host European Folklore Week from 23 to 27 August, commemorating six centuries of culture, dance, and music. Madeira’s unique folklore, combined with local and European groups, promises an exciting week of lively performances.
The highlight of the month is, of course, the Madeira Wine Festival, which takes place both in Câmara de Lobos and Funchal from 23 August to 13 September. This iconic celebration has Funchal adorned with all things grape and wine-related, giving visitors the chance to experience a little piece of Madeira’s wine history.
The Festival in Honour of Our Lady of Help (Nossa Senhora da Ajuda), held 28–30 August, brings people together with delicious local food, lively entertainment, and a joyful atmosphere that celebrates tradition and community spirit.
On 29–30 August, Machico lights up with the vibrant Festa do Santíssimo Sacramento (Blessed Sacrament) and the dramatic Festa dos Fachos (29). Witness fiery torch displays, live music, local food, and heartfelt traditions in a spectacular weekend of celebration and culture.
Astronomy
From 31 August to 13 September,the Madeira Wine Lounge at Praça do Povo in Funchal invites you to sample the wide variety of fortified wines, table wines, liqueurs, and still wines that the island produces. Visitors can also enjoy local gastronomy and live music, making it a charming and festive experience.
All that’s left to say is ‘let’s get the party started!’
The Ultra Skyrunning Madeira (USM) is set to welcome over 400 athletes from around the world, reflecting the event’s growing prestige and international appeal. The race starts on Friday, June 12, and continues until Saturday, June 13, in an edition that has expanded compared to last year. View the programme.
Taking place in the municipality of Santana, on the rugged northern coast of Madeira Island, USM continues to captivate runners with its demanding technical courses and spectacular scenery. Participants consistently praise the event for its thrilling terrain—ranging from ridgelines above the clouds to ancient levadas (irrigation channels) and deep valleys—as well as for the seamless organization that makes every edition feel unforgettable. The island’s unique topography and natural beauty are widely regarded as key reasons many return year after year.
The natural beauty of the island, with its steep trails, mountain peaks, forests, and ocean views, also makes this one of the most exciting and memorable races on the European trail running circuit.
Santana Sky Speed is the newest addition to the trail scene, set in the stunning Serras de Fora, linking the centre of Santana to nearby parishes. It’s part of a larger event featuring five races for all types of runners: the Madeira Sky Race (52km | 4055D+), Santana Sky Race (22km | 1780D+), Furão Sky Race (12km | 760D+), Santana Vertical Kilometre (4.8km | 1003D+), and the latest addition, Santana Sky Speed (1.3km | 370D+).
There are also races designed for young athletes. Each route offers a unique challenge across Madeira’s diverse landscapes.
Registration is open until May 31.A €1.50 entry fee supports the Madeira Regional Centre of the Portuguese League Against Cancer. Lace up and choose your challenge.
It’s June, and that can only mean one thing! Fun, fireworks and magic as the Festival of the Atlantic blasts into action. Throughout the month, the festival “Festival do Atlântico” not only features the Madeira International Fireworks Competition, but also celebrates the start of summer with a range of cultural events, from music and multimedia performances to circus acts, art, and sunset gatherings.
This year, four countries—(to be announced)—will compete for the coveted prize of creating Madeira’s spectacular end-of-year fireworks extravaganza. The displays will light up the skies at 22:30 on each of those nights.
This year, Porto Santo was once again included in the festival celebrations. The fireworks show will take place on the 23rd at 00.00 at the old city pier.
The Funchal Marina and Funchal City webcams will catch all the action as they broadcast these spectacular events live via their webcam streaming service.
On the 5th, 6th, and 7th of June, the town of Machico will be holding its 19th annual 16th Century Medieval Market (Mercado Quinhentista) titled “Gentes do Povoamento”. (meaning: People from the Settlement). The festivities include mounted equestrian tournaments and costumed revelry from some 200 shows including dance, theatre, music and circus acts.
The mounted tournaments will take place at 19:00 each evening while the spectacular fire shows will take place on Friday night at 23:00. Of course, the highlight of the event is the landing of the ship ‘Santa Maria’ in the bay of Machico, which will take place at 16:30 on Saturday 6th June. This lively, fun and entertaining event plays an integral part in the history of Machico and Madeira, making it an unmissable event.
Travelling to Machico couldn’t be easier as Transportes Públicos na Região Autónoma da Madeira (SIGA) bus company runs a regular service from Funchal to Machico via their 20, 23, 53, 78 and 113 bus routes.
Coming hot off the heels of the Flower Festival, June is an action-packed month filled with light, colour and plenty of entertainment.
If you are looking for excitement, the island of Porto Santo celebrates all things Tuna with their Tuna Festival from the 3rd to 6th June at Vila Baleira hotel, Porto Santo Island. There will be food tastings, workshops, and hundreds of innovative ways to cook this delicious fish.
The Medieval Market (Mercado Quinhentista) in Machico will take place on the 5th, 6th, and 7th. This is a superb way to experience Madeira’s unique and vibrant heritage. With the 600 years of the discovery of Madeira and Porto Santo very much in mind, this year’s event promises to be a fun-filled dynamic event with historical re-enactments, street performers, theatre and traditional stalls.
The Atlantic Festival runs from June 5th to 28th. This grand event, which marks the arrival of summer on Madeira and the Porto Santo islands, is more than just fireworks; it also includes concerts, street performances, circus shows, art exhibitions, the International Madeira Fireworks Competition, and summer sunsets, all of which contribute to Funchal’s lively atmosphere. For more information on the event, please refer to the programme. On the 6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th (all Saturday evenings) the Atlantic Festival Fireworkscontest takes place. Each Saturday night is ablaze with colour as international pyrotechnic companies fight it out to become the winner of this prestigious competition and provide the end of year firework display.
Creativity knows no bounds during the Regional Arts Week as some 4,000 students exhibit their work and provide live entertainment throughout Funchal from 8th to the 14th.
One of the highlights of the month is the Festival of the Popular Saints (Festa dos Santos Populares). The event takes place all over the island from the 10th of June to the 1st of July and celebrates the lives of St. Anthony (Santo Antonio) 12-13, St. John (São João) 24-25, and St. Peter (São Pedro) 26-29. As with all Madeiran festivals, there is plenty of good food, wine and live entertainment as well as homages to the saints themselves. This includes parades, marches (12, 13, 23, & 29), the occasional jumping over bonfires and live music. The celebrations take place in Funchal, Câmara de Lobos, Santa Cruz, Caniçal, Porto Santo, Calheta and Ribeira Brava.
From June 10th to 13th, Madeira Island celebrates its first popular saint, St. Anthony (Santo Antonio), in Santo Antonio parish. The festivities feature vibrant music and dance, including a line-up of regional artists, with the highlight being the famous parade marches (Marchas Populares) on the 12th. The parishes of Raposeira (Fajã da Ovelha) and Santo António da Serra (municipality of Santa Cruz) celebrate from the 12th to the 14th, with Ponta do Sol celebrating on the 14th.
Ultra Skyrunning Madeira returns to Santana, June 12–13, featuring five races: Madeira Sky Race, Santana Sky Race, Furão Sky Race, Santana Vertical Kilometre, and new addition Santana Sky Speed. Set in the stunning Laurissilva Forest, the event draws 400+ international athletes to one of Europe’s premier trail running destinations.
The Ribeira Brava Rally Race takes place on June 12-13 as part of the Coral Madeira Rally Championship. Organized by the Automóvel Clube Concelho de Santacruz (ACCS), the event promises two thrilling days of motorsport excitement.
Global Wellness Day on 13th June celebrates balance of mind, body, and soul. This year’s edition encourages connection through activities like meditation, yoga, walking, and dancing. It invites us to reconnect with Mother Nature by embracing the outdoors, and reconnect with family and friends by sharing meaningful moments and creating joyful memories together.
Entertainment suddenly takes on a more homespun appeal as Boaventura hosts its traditional and delicious Soup Fair (Soupa do Campo) from the 13th to the 14th. The soups were initially created to sustain busy workers and are substantial, tasty and include the islands renowned Açorda da Madeira.
The island of Porto Santo will be hosting the very popular St. John’s Festival (Festa de São João) between the 14th and 24th, with the parade marches (Marchas Populares) taking place on the 23rd.
The Monte Regional Ramp Race – Municipality of Funchal promises thrilling motorsport action on June 19–20, featuring top drivers, fierce competition, and enthusiastic crowds along the scenic route for an unforgettable racing experience.
Over the weekend, Jardim da Serra will be holding its famous Cherry Festival with plenty of entertainment including a parade to celebrate the new harvest from the 19th and 21st.
The Regional Bread Fair is held between the (to be announced) at People’s Square (Praça do Povo), an event organised by the Lions Clube do Funchal for over 20 years, and brings together a heavenly selection of local homemade bread and cakes that will whet any appetite.
If extreme fitness is your thing, the Madeira Cross Games, a three-day CrossFit training competition, will be held in Funchal’s city centre (Praça do Povo) from (to be announced).
From the 20th to the 24th, Funchal celebrates St. John’s Altars (Festa dos Altares de São João). Local businesses in the areas of Largo do Carmo, Rua da Conceição, Rua da Figueira Preta, and Travessa dos Reis prepare and display their traditional altar creativity, which is followed by a gastronomic show, great musical entertainment, and popular marches.
The island widely celebrates Saint John’s Day (São João), the most popular saint and the one that is celebrated all over Madeira Island. On the night of June 23rd, locals gather for St. John’s supper with bonfires on the pebble beaches of Praia do Vigário and Praia Formosa in Funchal. Popular marches also mark the celebration of St John’s Supper in Santa Cruz on the 23rd (15:00-23:20).
Between the 26th and the 28th, the Madeira Classic Car Rally brings together vintage car enthusiasts for a thrilling race along the island’s scenic roads. It’s a celebration of automotive history amidst Madeira’s stunning landscapes.
St. Peter’s Day will be celebrated in Câmara de Lobos and Ribeira Brava from June 26th to July 1st, and in Santa Cruz from June 28th to 29th. Ideal for anyone who enjoys a good party, as there is plenty of food, live entertainment, and a fireworks display.
