📅 UPDATED 26.02.2025 🎭
Carnival in Madeira is a time of joy, colour, and tradition. The streets of Funchal fill with music, parades, and lively performances, creating an atmosphere of excitement for locals and visitors alike.
In the city centre, Avenida Arriaga becomes the heart of the festivities. The area hosts the Carnival Market and a variety of street entertainment, including music, performances, and costumed parades that bring the celebration to life.
Two main events stand out:
- 🌟 The Grand Parade on Saturday night features elaborate floats, vibrant costumes, and choreographed performances that showcase the creativity and spirit of the island’s Carnival.
- 🎭 The Tuesday Fun Parade is a more informal and humorous event. Participants dress in playful and imaginative costumes, adding a touch of comedy to the festivities.
For details on all activities and events, check the official Carnival programme and enjoy this unique celebration.
🎉 Portuguese → download 📤
What to Eat During Madeira Carnival? 🍩
Carnival in Madeira isn’t just about parades and music—it’s also the perfect time to enjoy some of the island’s most beloved treats.
🥯 Sonhos—meaning “dreams”—are light and airy deep-fried dough balls that are a staple of Carnival season. They are prepared by mixing butter, flour, and eggs into a smooth batter and then frying until golden and crispy. Once ready, they are rolled in sugar and cinnamon or drizzled with honey for a sweet finishing touch.
🍩 Malassadas – Sometimes referred to as Portuguese doughnuts, these soft, fluffy fried dough rounds are another Carnival favourite. Made from a simple yeast-based dough, they are left to rise before being deep-fried and coated in sugar and cinnamon. Traditionally, they are enjoyed warm, either plain or with a drizzle of Madeira honey.
For the whole experience, pair them with a glass of Poncha, Madeira’s famous sugar cane rum drink.
How to Make Sonhos and Malassadas at Home
Sonhos Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract
- Pinch of salt
- Oil for frying
- Sugar and cinnamon for coating
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat water, butter, and sugar until boiling.
- Remove from heat, add flour, and stir until a dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a bowl and let it cool slightly.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then add lemon extract and salt.
- Heat oil to 375°F (190°C) and drop in small spoonfuls of batter.
- Fry until golden brown, then roll in sugar and cinnamon.
Malassadas Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 6 large eggs
- 30 g fresh baker’s yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Oil for frying
- Sugar and cinnamon for coating
Instructions:
- Mix flour and salt in a large bowl. Dissolve yeast in warm water and add to the mixture.
- Beat in eggs and lemon zest, and gradually add milk until smooth.
- Cover and let the dough rise for 2 hours.
- Heat oil to 375°F (190°C), then drop spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil.
- Fry until golden brown, drain, and coat in sugar and cinnamon.
What to do during your Madeira Carnival Festivities?
There’s so much to experience during Carnival in Madeira! From themed street parties and samba performances to immersive cultural events, the festival offers something for everyone.
For a complete list of activities, check the menu at the top of the page.
Need help planning your Carnival in Madeira?
Want a stress-free Carnival experience tailored to your preferences? Our experts can help you find the best hotels, activities, and insider tips to make the most of your trip.
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