The situation regarding Madeira’s world-famous New Year’s Eve celebrations is evolving rapidly as Storm Francis approaches the archipelago. With an Orange Warning in effect and forecasts predicting the worst weather conditions—heavy rain, hail, and 80 km/h winds—precisely during the midnight hour, authorities are being forced to rethink the traditional schedule.
The Plan: Fireworks at 20:00? According to exclusive information obtained by This is Madeira Island, the safety and technical teams are strongly recommending that the main fireworks display be rescheduled to 20:00 (8:00 PM) tomorrow evening.
This shift would allow the pyrotechnic show to proceed during a safer “weather window” before the storm peaks between midnight and 06:00 AM on January 1st.
Crucial Update: Government Meeting at 19:00 We can now confirm that the Regional Government has summoned journalists for an urgent press conference/meeting today at 19:00.
It is highly probable that this meeting will serve as the official platform to announce the schedule change. Authorities are expected to brief the media on the final safety protocols and confirm if the 20:00 start time is locked in.
What to Expect
We are monitoring this 19:00 meeting closely. Please keep refreshing this page—we will post the final confirmation the second it is announced.
t is the news we were all hoping for: The Regional Government of Madeira has officially confirmed that the New Year’s Eve fireworks display will proceed as originally planned at midnight (24:00). Following the urgent 19:00 meeting with the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and the Atmosphere (IPMA) and safety authorities, the decision was made to keep the traditional schedule. Why the Change? Earlier today, fears were high that Storm...
FUNCHAL, MADEIRA — April 1, 2026 Apex Horizon Hospitality, a global leader in luxury entertainment, is thrilled to announce the acquisition of Deserta Grande for the development of The Desertas Crown, an unprecedented 15-story casino, super-yacht marina, and luxury resort. Following a private zoning reclassification, ground will break this summer to transform the currently underutilized, rocky landscape into the crown jewel of the Atlantic Riviera. Redefining the Commute: The Atlantic...
The Madeira archipelago has once again proven its standing as a world-class travel destination, securing the prestigious title of ‘Europe’s Leading Island Destination’ at the 2025 World Travel Awards (WTA). At the gala ceremony held in Sardinia, Italy, Madeira reaffirmed its dominance in this highly competitive category. This repeated recognition at what is considered the “Oscars” of the tourism industry highlights the island’s unique blend of stunning natural beauty, exceptional...
Stay connected to the wonders of Madeira! Subscribe to receive exclusive travel tips, exciting updates, and special offers straight to your inbox. Your next adventure starts here!
