Welcome to the enchanting world of Christmas on Madeira Island! Here, the festive season is more than just a celebration; it's a unique and heartwarming experience that sets the island apart from the rest of the world. The 'Festival Day' is a symphony of customs and traditions that infuse the air with joy. Phrases like 'for the Festival,' 'the Festival pig,' 'the month of the Festival,' and 'after the Festival' echo the chosen date for the celebration of Jesus' birth. This time of year is a treasure trove of traditions, a tapestry woven with the threads of ethnography and folklore, unveiling the historical soul of the Madeirans. And the beauty is, these traditions continue to thrive even today! Let's delve into some of the heartwarming customs and traditions of Christmas on Madeira Island.
Nativity Scenes ('Presépios') and 'Lapinhas'
Step into the magical world of Nativity scenes, presented in two charming forms: the stepped arrangement and the rock formation, affectionately known as 'lapinha' by the locals.
Stepped Nativity Scene ('Lapinha' in a Stepped Arrangement): A small three-tiered altar, adorned with a red cloth and a delicate white lace cover, creates the perfect stage. At the pinnacle, Baby Jesus takes center stage, surrounded by shepherds, nativity figures, and a delightful assortment of fruits like oranges, pears, chestnuts, and walnuts.
Rock Formation Nativity Scene ('Rochinha' or 'Presépio-lapinha'): Mimicking the island's landscape, this rock formation portrays mountains, valleys, terraced fields, and a cozy cave. Figures, houses, churches, paths, lakes, and even waterfalls come to life. Fruits and Baby Jesus find their place in the manger within the cave, while shepherds and the Wise Men join in the adoration around the scene.
The Christmas Tree
The Christmas tree, traditionally bought at the farmers' market, brings the natural scent of the season indoors. While some still opt for the real deal, artificial trees have found their place in many homes. Adorned with balls, lights, snowflakes, ribbons, and wreaths, topped with a shining star, the Christmas tree becomes a magical companion to the rock formation Nativity scene.
'The Market Night'
On December 23rd, all roads lead to the Farmers' Market in Funchal, known as 'The Market Night.' Originating in the 1940s, this tradition offers a last-minute chance to buy fresh fruits and vegetables for the festive season. Explore the market's vibrant atmosphere, discover regional products, and enjoy the music and entertainment. Don't miss the delicious 'carne de vinha d'alhos' sandwiches and the local 'poncha.'
Christmas Lighting in Madeira
From December 1st to January 8th, the Christmas lighting in Funchal transforms the city into a dazzling spectacle. Take a stroll through the main streets like Fernão de Ornelas Street, Avenida do Mar, Avenida Arriaga, and Rua do Aljube, and soak in the festive magic.
Typical Foods and Drinks of Christmas in Madeira
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Madeiran Christmas with traditional dishes from the islands, such as 'carne de vinho e alhos' and chicken soup. Explore a variety of drinks and sweets that are cherished during this joyful season.
Madeira Honey Cake
One of the crown jewels of Madeiran gastronomy, the Madeira Honey Cake, is a sweet masterpiece. Made with sugarcane honey, it has the unique ability to preserve its delightful flavors for an extended period. The tradition is to prepare it on December 8, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
Madeiran Sweet Breads ('Broas')
Christmas on Madeira is synonymous with sweet delights, and 'Broas de Mel' are a must-try. Crafted from sugarcane honey, these treats are a favorite during the festive season. Whether it's butter 'broas,' beer 'broas,' coconut 'broas,' or sand 'broas,' there's something to suit every palate!
Marinated Meat Sandwiches ('Sandes de Carne Vinha D'Alhos')
A Christmas feast in Madeira wouldn't be complete without marinated meat sandwiches. A simple yet traditional delight, it finds its place on every Madeiran table during the festive season. Made with pork, white wine, vinegar, garlic, laurel, savory, salt, and pepper, the meat is marinated for at least two days, then cooked and fried in pork lard. It's served with bread fried in the same flavorful fat.
Midnight Masses
The festive cheer kicks off with the enchanting Midnight Masses, known as novenas. Beginning on December 16 and concluding on the 24th, these dawn celebrations (usually between 5 and 7 a.m.) date back to the 18th century. After the Masses, the churchyards come alive with joy as locals gather to share food and drinks with the faithful and visitors alike.
Midnight Mass ('Missa do Galo')
Picture this: Midnight on December 24th, after a heartwarming Christmas Eve dinner. Enter the Midnight Mass, named after the legend of a rooster believed to be the first witness to Baby Jesus' birth. The rooster's crow is said to announce the arrival of Christ every Christmas.
Madeiran Chicken Soup ('Canja de Galinha')
Wrap up your Madeiran Christmas celebration with a warm bowl of Madeiran chicken soup. Served in small bowls or cups and accompanied by traditional home-baked bread or 'bolo do caco,' it's the perfect way to end a festive night.
Madeiran Liqueurs
Savor the spirit of Christmas with Madeiran liqueurs—tangerine, tim tam tum, anise, loquat kernel, beer, peppermint, passion fruit, pitanga, sugarcane honey, cherry, banana, and more. Often homemade, these liqueurs are a delightful accompaniment to honey cake and 'broas.'
Come, be a part of the magical Christmas traditions on Madeira Island. Experience the warmth, joy, and flavors that make this festive season truly extraordinary!
