Madeira's most important festival
In Madeira, Christmas is called "A Festa". It's the most important festival of the year, where everything revolves around family, music and, of course, food. Between the beginning of December and January 15, the whole island is busy with its traditions.
THE WHOLE ISLAND IS DECORATED
Officially beginning on December 1 with the switch-on of the lights, the island's streets and private gardens become magical places where it's impossible not to smile. Strolling through Funchal is a walk full of wonder: from brightly-colored trees and giant Christmas trees to tunnels of twinkling lights, presents, elves and flowers.
PLEASANT SMELLS AND MUSIC
There's an inviting smell in the air of vinha d'alhos (a traditional dish of meat marinated in garlic and wine), mandarins and junquilhos (a kind of daffodil that blooms for the holiday). There's music everywhere, from Michael Bublé's Christmas album to harmony bands and the traditional songs that everyone sings. You can also hear singing through church doors early in the morning: these are the Missas do Parto, masses symbolizing the months of Mary's pregnancy, dedicated throughout the island to shepherds, fishermen and even cyclists.
CRÈCHES EVERYWHERE
Rabbithas are built in every house, chapel and square. These are typical Madeiran nativity scenes, illustrating life on the island now and in the past. Think cribs with the baby Jesus on top, decorated with fruit or wheat and barley. You'll also find shepherds, fishermen, embroiderers, barbers, butchers, lumberjacks, painters... in the Lapinhas.
AMUSEMENT MARKETS
The market offers an abundance of tropical fruits, available even in winter thanks to the climate. The stalls are filled with fresh produce such as fish and vegetables, as well as flowers such as poinsettias and Sapatinho orchids to decorate windowsills. The best days for fruit and vegetables are Friday and Saturday mornings, when local farmers sell their produce. During the week, you'll find antique and collectibles fairs, patisserie and craft stalls, as well as stands selling original clothing and accessories, perfect for bringing home unique souvenirs.
BON BAK
On December 8, families get together to bake dozens of Bolos de Mel, a traditional Madeira cake. Cinnamon, aniseed and walnuts are just some of the ingredients, but each family has its own recipe for this delicacy. The oven is fired for hours and, while kneading, spicy broas de mel cookies and colorful liqueurs made from cherries, aniseed and tangerine, among others, are made.
"Boas Festas", happy holidays, is the most-heard greeting, and relatives come from far and wide to join in the celebration. It's a time of light, music and joy at the table.
Viva A Festa!
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