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What better way to welcome 2019 than being part of the Madeira Fireworks Display; whether you are in Funchal or viewing live via the Funchal Marina Live Webcam or Funchal City Live Webcam, this is one of the most celebrated fireworks shows in the world. This year why not do something entirely different and enjoy a midday plunge into the sea. At noon every New Year’s Day intrepid swimmers rush to Ponta Gorda Bathing Complex at noon to take part in this event. The event is open to everyone, and the only stipulation is that you wear your Christmas hat. Signalling the ending of the Christmas celebrations, Twelfth Night is celebrated on the evening of the 5th of January throughout the island. Traditionally songs were sung in neighbours houses and today friends and neighbours meet to sing the ‘the epiphany’ or ‘Janeiras.’ However, there is also a musical show ‘Cantar os Reis’ which is held in the Auditorium of the Municipal Garden in Funchal. Christmas officially ends between the 11th and 15th of January with the Santo Amaro Feast. It’s a time to finish off all the Christmas goodies and tidy everything away. The district of Santa Cruz pays homage to this event, holding one of its liveliest religious festivals of the year. Looking for some wedding inspiration? Then the Weddings Fair ‘Funchal Noivos and Festas’ event at the Pestana Fórum Casino between the 18th and 20th is just the ticket as several Madeiran companies specialising in weddings and wedding planning are keen to promote Madeira as a perfect wedding location. Needing to work off a little Christmas Pud? Well, the XI Madeira Orienteering Meeting is ideal, held on the third weekend of the month, the competition is made up of three different distance events. It is open to anyone who seeks a new experience or simply wants to experience Madeira’s abundant and breath-taking nature. Roadrunners will love the Funchal Marathon, which takes place on the 20th. This international event has three races, the Funchal Full Marathon (42.195.00m), a half marathon of 21,097.50m and a fun mini-marathon of 5.900m. Finally, after all, that running the Panelo Feast in Seixal, near Porto Moniz on the 27th will tickle the taste buds as the small village prepares its gourmet dish of vegetables and blood sausage.
As with all Portuguese festivals, there will be a lot of entertainment and further food and drink to enjoy. It may only be the first month of the year but its packed with fun and entertainment.
