Porto Santo Events

St. John's Day in Porto Santo

From 22nd to 26th June 2012

The celebration of St. John’s day marks the beginning of the summer festivities in Porto Santo. There are lots of interesting events including traditional parades.

The festivities take place all over the island, but the main events are in the centre of Vila Baleira.

On the eve of St. John’s day, 23^rd June, there is a traditional parade of groups representing different places on the island. After that, you can try jumping over a bonfire or watching the balloons being released by the quay.

There are food and drink stalls all over the city and the celebrations last every day and night during the Festas de São João.

Columbus Festival

From 13th to 15th September 2012

The Columbus Festival was first held in 2000 with the aim of launching a quality cultural tourism offer on the island of Porto Santo.

The event is based around the historical figure of Christopher Columbus, who had close links with Madeira both as a sugar trader during the island’s sugar boom years and as the result of his marriage to Filipa de Moniz, the daughter of Isabel Moniz and Bartolomeu Perestrelo, the first Captain-Donatory of Porto Santo, and is held in tribute to the man who became a famous 15^th century explorer.

In recent years, the festival has taken on the format of a historical recreation of everyday life in the 15^th century, in particular in the period marked by Columbus’s time on the island, which enchants tourists and residents alike.

The programme includes a 15^th century fair and supper, the landing of Christopher Columbus, a military detachment, a children’s area with Renaissance games, circus displays, plays, displays by groups of buccaneers and non-stop fun and entertainment including lots of music and European and oriental dances.

The local population and tourists are encouraged to take the part of characters in the festival and period costumes are provided that give an authentic feel to the event.

There are other side attractions taking place simultaneously, including regional gastronomy, crafts and other activities adding to the general bustle amid the historical figures.