Madeira Wine Festival

Madeira Wine Festival – Madeira’s fortified wine has a unique taste which differentiates it from any other wine on the market. Luckily, once a year, tourists and locals can assist to the Madeira Wine Festival dedicated to Madeira’s famous born-at-sea nectar.

The Madeira Wine Festival takes place in Funchal from late August until early September and should not be missed by any wine lover out there. The festival was created in the late 1970s to honor the grape harvest and celebrate wine production on the island. It pays homage one of the island’s most famous products resulting from viticulture labor. You can download the program for 2022 in PDF format right here

The celebrations include the European folklore week, live wine harvest in Estreito de Câmara de Lobos as well as street entertainment and performances in the capital.

Funchal Fun and Activities

When wandering around Funchal during the festival you will be able to check out various stalls and adornments with viticulture tools, mainly on the Avenida da Arriaga. Whether you do not know anything about wine or are a true oenophile, you will have the opportunity to learn more about the art of viticulture with small exhibitions of traditional picking baskets, casks, barrels, presses and much more. Re-enactments of the wine making process can also be witnessed.

Grape Picking

One day a year during the festival, in Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, visitors have the unique opportunity to take part in a grape picking session as a part of the wine making process. Do not hesitate to roll up your sleeves and take part in one of the most important economic activities on the island! To make the day even better, the harvest is accompanied by live music (what more could you want?).

The Madeira Wine Festival is also the perfect occasion to try local wines, with various samplings and tastings taking place.