Bunting, bay-leaf skewers and poncha into the small hours: Madeira's saints'-night arraiais are the island at its most genuinely local.

Three nights of pop and dance above Funchal marina, the loud, feel-good start to the island's summer.

African rhythms meet Madeiran folk on the island's far west: a free day of music, food and family marking Madeira's South African connection.

Three nights of world-class jazz above the bay, plus free fringe concerts in the Municipal Gardens.

Banana cake, banana liqueur and live music by the water in a village most visitors never reach.

Madeira's limpet festival lights up Paúl do Mar harbour each July, grilled lapas, live music & a proper arraial. Dates, food & how to go.

Vintage cars among the trees of Quinta Magnólia, with extras in early-1900s dress, part car show, part garden party.

European-championship rally cars on closed mountain roads, kicking off with a packed city stage on Avenida do Mar.

Madeira's signature deep-sea fish, served the classic way with fried banana, in a working fishing harbour 15 minutes from Funchal.

The island's biggest religious festa: procession and Mass on the 15th, music and espetada the night before, high above Funchal.

Guided hikes, canyoning, biking and sea outings island-wide, autumn is Madeira's sweet spot for getting outdoors.

Roasted chestnuts, chestnut liqueur and a folklore parade in a spectacular mountain valley above Funchal.

Elaborate lights, a city mercadinho and bolo de mel by the cup, Funchal does Christmas properly.

Last-minute Christmas shopping turns into an all-night street party of poncha and grupos de cantares around the market.

A world-record display lights the whole bay at midnight. The island's biggest night, and it books out fast.