Self-catering holidays in Funchal, Madeira.
Christmas Lights, Madeira
A magical time in Funchal
Christmas, and especially New Year, is one of Madeira's peak seasons.... and they really go to town!
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Funchal spends literally hundreds of thousands on decorations and fireworks, sometimes running into the millions of Euros.
In New Year 2006 Madeira broke all records for what was the biggest fireworks display ever held in the world. On New Year's Eve cruse ships pack the harbour for the best view, even mooring out to sea for a better view of the whole island!
Preparations for the festive season start towards the end of November but the official switching on is not usually until the 4th or 5th of December.
If you are planning on visiting the island for the New Year fireworks be prepared to walk back home! Come about 11.30pm the whole of the island comes to a stand-still, including taxi drivers and most restaurants as the locals get ready for the spectacle. And don't fret too much over the best location - you won't miss it wherever you are!
