Everywhere around the island one can feel the Christmas spirit in the air. Starting early in the morning in rural areas with birth masses, where people wake up early and go around the neiborhood playing some typical instrument to wake up everybody so they can join the mass that celebrates the each of the 9 months when Holy Mary carried Jesus in her womb.

In Funchal downtown there are decorations all over the squares where one can see the children chorus singing in front of the Cathedral, the Santa's reinders with Santa's little helpers and also some shops where one can buy some last minute Xmas gifts.

Arco de São Jorge - Madeira Island

Photo by: Tânia Pestana