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Events · Funchal · 19 August 2026

Funchal Folk Arraial do Mundo enlivens city center with global cultural parades

The Funchal Folk Arraial do Mundo filled the city center streets with parades from cultural groups, celebrating global traditions.

The streets of Funchal's center were filled with color, music, and traditions from around the world on August 19th, with parades by participating groups in the Funchal Folk Arraial do Mundo. The initiative, which officially opened on August 17th at Largo do Município, saw groups parade through the city's main streets, offering residents and visitors a cultural exchange.

Organized by Grupo de Folclore Monteverde, the festival is part of the celebrations for the 518th anniversary of Funchal City. It is the only folklore festival in Madeira affiliated with CIOFF (International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts).

The parades culminated on Avenida Arriaga, turning the city into a stage for celebration. The program continues with the Funchal Folk Arraial do Mundo Gala, scheduled for August 21st in the Municipal Garden.

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