According to the Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Environment and Culture of Madeira, the lights, which will be on until the early morning of January 8, cover the main avenues and streets of all parishes in Funchal, including public buildings, monuments, squares, churches, fortresses, palaces, streams and gardens.

In a note sent to the Lusa news agency, the regional secretariat informs that the official inauguration ceremony of the Christmas lights is scheduled for December 1st, at 7 pm, in Praça do Povo, featuring “a new LED screen with video projections alluding to Madeira, as well as a stage for shows”.

A concert by Beatriz Caboz with the Funchal Jazz Orchestra will follow, marking the official start of this Christmas program organized by the island's executive.

The lights will be switched on at 6:00 PM and switched off at 1:00 AM on most days, except for December 23, 24, and 31, when the lights will be switched off at 6:00 AM, and on December 25 and 30 at 4:00 AM.

In Porto Santo, the town of Vila Baleira will be illuminated between December 1 and January 7, from 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM, except for December 24 and 31, when it will be lit until 4:00 AM.

This year's illuminations will be similar to last year's, as the Madeiran executive is launching a public tender for two years.

The Regional Government (PSD/CDS-PP) has launched two public tenders, totalling €3.6 million (excluding VAT), for the design, construction, assembly, and disassembly of Christmas and New Year's lights in 2024/2025 and 2025/2026, and Carnival lights this year and next.

Quoted in the press release, the Secretary of Tourism emphasizes that “no major changes are planned for the decorative concept,” considering that “it was very well received by the public and consolidated the image of Christmas in Madeira.”

This competition model, valid for two years, allows “guaranteeing the continuity and artistic quality of the Christmas lights, optimizing resources and ensuring the timely execution of the works,” he stated.

“Among the main decorative elements, the ‘Celestial Path of Storms’ will remain on the Funchal Quay — an immersive and interactive installation with augmented reality technology that invites visitors to explore a path of lights, sounds and visual effects,” the statement highlights.

The area between Rua Fernão de Ornelas and the municipal garden will once again be inspired by the Cleopatra butterfly of Madeira, “an endemic species known for its natural luminosity.”

In Praça do Povo, an interactive 30-meter-high Christmas tree will be installed again, “decorated with suspended pieces that simulate a musical staff.” "And they integrate augmented reality experiences."

"Other emblematic spaces, such as Colombo Square, CR7 Square, and Sá Carneiro Avenue, will also maintain their themed installations, including the ceiling of luminous jellyfish above the promenade," says the Regional Secretariat of Tourism.

Eduardo Jesus also points out that the current project focuses on sustainability and energy efficiency, "exclusively using LED technology and recyclable materials."

"The illuminations are part of the emotional identity of the regional festival, they are an invitation to sharing and celebration, and represent a moment of great pride for all the people of Madeira and Porto Santo," emphasizes the official.