Madeira Flower Festival – Festa do Flor
Madeira Flower Festival
Madeira’s wonderful Carnaval parade is just behind us and the next fabulous event lurks around the corner: The Madeira Flower Festival or Festa do Flor. The Madeira Flower Festival is number 5 in the top 10 best flower festivals in the world. This festival takes place every year four weeks after Easter, thus in April or May depending on the year. Above all, the Flower Festival is a twofold tribute to the Madeira. First, it is a tribute to Spring. Second, one of Madeira’s nickname is “floating garden” with exuberant flowers blooming everywhere.
Flower Carpets and Decorations
Streets in all of Madeira’s villages are covered with floral carpets. Also, this form of art is still very much alive across the island. Floral mats and decorations are also part of each religious festival throughout the year. In Funchal, the decorations of the Avenida Arriaga are particularly noteworthy. Stroll along the beautiful floral carpets and witness the intricate designs, the meticulous craftsmanship and color harmonies.
Flower Festival Parade
A colorful allegorical parade marks the highlight of the festivities. Furthermore, many flower-decorated floats and fairy-tale or flowery costumed Madeiran’s parade through Funchal. Hence vibrant musical rhythms and dances enthusiasm the visitors the planned route. It is a real delight for the eyes and for each photographer.
Wall of Hope
Flowers, nature and people are inseparable. The Flower Festival sends a message of hope and mutual respect. Every year children parade in front of the “Wall of Hope” on Praça do Municipio. While doing so, they deposit a flower on the wall which symbolizes their hope for peace and for a better world.
Madeira Auto Parade
Classic Car lovers will adore the Madeira Auto Parade. Hence, once the parade terminated, these collectible old-timers are on display at Avenida Francisco Sa Carneiro. That street borders the CR7 Hotel and Museum.
This handy map shows the route of the various Flower Festival Parades.
