Have a great night all, and enjoy one of the best nights of the year in Funchal.
As night falls, the center of Funchal begins to show clear signs of excitement for another edition of the Market Night. While activity has been constant throughout the day, as the big night approaches, thousands of people are already visible circulating in the city center, anticipating what promises to be a long and very busy night.
In the vicinity of the Farmers’ Market, the Central Square, and along the seafront, the activity has been intensifying, with people from various parts of the region and the first tourists joining the festive atmosphere. Many are already starting to do their last-minute shopping for Christmas dinner, while others choose to arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds.
Officially, the Market Night kicks off at 7 pm, with the opening of the event being marked by the presence of the Funchal city council, led by Jorge Carvalho, formally beginning one of the biggest popular Christmas celebrations in Madeira.
The presence of Christmas decorations, including sweaters, hats, and other items alluding to the season, contributes to the atmosphere that is gradually taking hold in the city, where the glow of the Christmas lights is also beginning to take center stage.
Dr. Fernão de Ornelas Street and the access roads to the Farmers’ Market are preparing to receive a high volume of people over the next few hours, on a night that is expected to extend into the early hours of the morning, with the traditional food and drinks, music and entertainment spreading throughout practically the entire downtown area of Funchal.
As the night progresses, Funchal once again dresses up for the festivities of what is considered the largest popular celebration of Christmas in Madeira.