Event Details
Welcome to the Columbus Festival 2026 on Porto Santo
From 17 to 20 September 2026, the small Atlantic island of Porto Santo (Madeira, Portugal) travels back to the 15th century for four days. The Columbus Festival commemorates the time the navigator Christopher Columbus spent on the island; he lived here for several years after marrying Filipa Moniz, daughter of the island's first captain. In Vila Baleira, the capital of Porto Santo, the streets turn into a living stage for the era of the Portuguese Age of Discovery.
Highlights
- Reenactment of Christopher Columbus's arrival at the harbour
- Festive parade through the streets of Vila Baleira
- Renaissance market with 16th century style stalls
- Historical dramatizations, staged scenes and street performances
- Acrobatics and juggling on public squares
- Participation of local schools, teachers and residents
- Musical performances and dance across several squares on the island
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Program
The festival opens with the symbolic arrival of Columbus at the harbour of Porto Santo, followed by a parade through the old town of Vila Baleira in which residents and visitors take part dressed in period costume. On the following days, street theatre, acrobatics, music and the large Renaissance market shape the island's atmosphere. Local schools and community groups take an active role in the reenactments, so that the whole community becomes part of the festival. Events generally run between 3:00 PM and 11:00 PM at various locations in Vila Baleira; the detailed daily schedule is published shortly before the festival.
Tickets
Entry to the Columbus Festival is completely free. Only food, drinks and parking, where applicable, are paid on site.
Visitor Tips
- Travel early, as Porto Santo gets busy during the festival; book flights and ferries from Madeira in advance.
- Wearing period costume adds to the atmosphere but is not required.
- Wear comfortable shoes, since many activities take place on foot in the old town.
- Check the daily schedule on site, as times and locations can change due to weather.
- Combine the visit with a few days on Porto Santo's golden sand beach.
