[:en]
Things to Do in Madeira in February | Events, Carnival & Festivals
February is one of the most exciting months to visit Madeira. It’s when winter starts to soften, days slowly get longer, and the island fills with colour, music and celebration thanks to Carnival season.
From parades and parties to food festivals, fairs and outdoor events, February offers a great mix of culture, tradition and fun, whether you’re visiting Madeira for the first time or already living on the island.
Here’s a complete guide to the best things to do in Madeira in February:
*Dates and times may vary slightly each year. Always check official sources closer to your visit.
Carnival in Madeira: The Main Highlight
Carnival is the star of February in Madeira. Festivities take place all over the island, with Funchal at the centre of the action, but several towns hosting their own events and traditions.
Highlights include:
The colourful Carnival Float Parade in Funchal
Costume nights and parties in hotels and bars
Traditional events like Batucada in Câmara de Lobos
Family-friendly day parades in Funchal
Community celebrations like Festa dos Compadres in Santana
If you’re interested mainly in nightlife and parties, you can also check my guide
⇒ Top Carnival Parties in Madeira.
Festa dos Compadres (Santana)
One of the most traditional Carnival events in Madeira, Festa dos Compadres marks the Carnival festivities in the island and has been celebrated in Santana for more than 50 years.
The event is known for its giant satirical figures, humour-filled parades and lively atmosphere that takes over this quiet town in the north of the island.
The celebrations culminate with the Trial and Burning of the “Compadres” and “Comadres”, a symbolic ceremony full of social critique, humour and tradition.
📍 Where: Santana town centre
📅 When: 21–22 February 2026
Family-Friendly Events in February
If you’re travelling with children, February is still a great month to visit Madeira.
Many town centres host activities suitable for all ages. Check out my guide ⇒Family-Friendly Things to Do in Madeira
- Children’s Carnival Parade (Funchal) is colourful, joyful and perfect for families
📍 Where: Funchal town centre
📅 When: 13 February 2026
Food & Gastronomy Events
February also brings several food-focused events, including:
Gastronomy fairs in Funchal at the Farmers Market
The Regional Custard Apple Exhibition in Santana – Madeira’s custard apple (Annona cherimola) is a creamy, sweet fruit with flavors of banana and vanilla. Grown in valleys and gardens, it’s a seasonal treat from November to March, enjoyed fresh or in desserts, prized for its unique aroma and soft, custard-like texture.📍 Where: Santana
📅 When: 28 February -1 March 2026
Tips if You Try Custard Apple in Madeira
Let it ripen fully before eating, green and firm fruits are not sweet.
Look for slightly soft fruits that yield to gentle pressure.
Don’t eat the black seeds!
And of course, Carnival season means one thing…trying “Sonhos”, Madeira’s traditional Carnival dessert. You’ll find them in bakeries all over the island.
Carnival Concert
The Carnival Concert by the Madeira Classical Orchestra on 15 February at 6 pm at the Madeira Congress Centre blends lively orchestral music with carnival spirit. Conducted by Luís Andrade and featuring soloist Alberto Sousa, the event invites audiences to enjoy music—and even come in costume! You can find more information here.
📍 Where: Centro de Congressos da Madeira, Funchal
📅 When: 15 February 2026
Porto Moniz Trail
The Porto Moniz Trail is a stunning trail‑running event on Madeira’s north coast. With routes of 13 km, 25 km, and 43 km, runners explore levadas, forest paths, and mountain trails, all surrounded by breathtaking island scenery. Check out the official website
📍 Where: Porto Moniz
📅 When: 8 February 2026
🌿 Outdoor Things to Do in February
Carnival aside, February is still a great month for exploring the island. Weather can be mixed, so it’s a good idea to plan a mix of outdoor and cultural activities. Check out my guide to help you decide the best area to stay, based on your travel style and interests. In this post each levada walk/hike is listed under the municipality where the start point / main access is located.
✨ Is February a Good Time to Visit Madeira?
Absolutely.
February combines:
Lively cultural events
Fewer crowds than spring and summer
A strong local atmosphere
A unique opportunity to experience Carnival traditions
It’s one of the best months to see Madeira at its most expressive and joyful.
💌 Stay in Touch
Want more Madeira tips, local events and travel inspiration?
👉 Subscribe to the blog and get updates straight to your email.
And if you’re visiting in 2026 for Carnival, don’t forget to check my guide to the Top Carnival Parties in Madeira.
Enjoy February on the island 🌸🎭
[:]