Funchal Gears Up for Festive 'Noite do Mercado' with Special Cleaning Operations
Madeira GuideThousands gather in Funchal for the traditional 'Noite do Mercado' while the city ramps up cleaning efforts with 140 workers and 156 trash containers.
As the sun sets over Funchal on December 23rd, the city bustles with excitement for the 'Noite do Mercado' (Market Night), a cherished festive event that marks the culmination of the year’s Christmas celebrations. The streets in the heart of Funchal, particularly around the Mercado dos Lavradores and the waterfront, are thronged with residents and tourists alike, eager to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and partake in last-minute Christmas shopping.
The 'Noite do Mercado' is not only a shopping event but a cultural celebration that draws people from all corners of Madeira and beyond. With the influx of visitors, the city has implemented a robust cleaning operation to ensure the streets remain tidy and welcoming throughout the festivities.
Comprehensive Cleaning Plan
The Funchal City Council has deployed approximately 140 workers dedicated to maintaining cleanliness during the festival. These workers, drawn from the city's Department of Environment, will be actively collecting waste from overflowing bins and clearing any litter encountered across the city center. To facilitate this, 156 waste containers have been strategically positioned, including 54 for recyclable materials (embalões), 4 for paper (papelão), 4 for glass (vidrão), and 94 for non-recyclable waste.
In addition to manpower, the operation features 25 vehicles, including street sweepers, open-bed trucks, water tankers, mini-support vehicles, and waste collection trucks, ensuring the city remains clean and inviting.
Public Facilities and Logistics
To accommodate the increased foot traffic, the city has adjusted the operating hours of public restrooms at key locations such as Largo da Restauração and the Municipal Garden, extending services late into the night and early morning of December 24th. The cleaning teams will start their operations as early as 6:00 AM on the 24th, targeting major areas such as Rua Fernão de Ornelas, Avenida Arriaga, and the Old Town, with plans to conclude by 8:00 PM.
The 'Noite do Mercado' is a testament to Funchal's ability to blend tradition with efficient urban management, ensuring both residents and visitors enjoy a memorable and clean festive experience.
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Madeira Guide
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