Funchal has a mild subtropical climate year-round. Summer temperatures sit around 25 degrees Celsius, winter rarely drops below 15. The driest and warmest months are April through September, which is also when the city's festival calendar is busiest. November through February brings rain, with up to 11 inches of precipitation per month and frequent heavy showers.
Madeira Flower Festival (April/May) fills the streets with flower-covered floats, parades, and the "Wall of Hope" decorated by local children. Best experienced on foot.
Funchal Jazz Festival (June/July) brings concerts and jam sessions celebrating both classic and contemporary jazz.
Madeira Wine Festival (September) marks the grape harvest. The festival begins in nearby Camara de Lobos with a live harvest show where grapes are gathered and pressed by foot. In Funchal, the celebrations continue with light and sound shows.
Festival do Atlantico (June) lights up Funchal Bay with fireworks displays every Saturday evening throughout the month.
New Year's Eve is Funchal's biggest night. The fireworks display over the bay is one of the largest in the world and draws visitors from across Europe.