Flower Festival, 2nd-26th May

Madeira's annual Flower Festival begins on the 2nd May with a range of activities for all ages and entertainment and stalls in the Avenida Arriaga. The now famous parade takes place on Sunday May 5th at 4.30pm. If you want a good view from the grandstands, you'll need to pre-book and pay. The Classic Car parade takes place the following week, May 12th, at the same time.

The full programme and booking details can be found on the VisitMadeira website.

The Flower Festival is one of the highlights of Madeira's tourist calendar and hotel occupancy is at 95%, so it will be well-patronised. If you're hoping to get a glimpse without booking a grandstand seat, you'll need to arrive early and be suitably prepared for being out in the sun for an extended period of time. 

Street closures may lead to diversions and public transport is likely to be very busy and subject to alteration.