Traditional Food Festival Returns to Santana

The village of Santana, famous for its iconic triangular thatched houses, will once again host the Traditional Food Festival, celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Madeira. This year's event, running from December 15th to 22nd, promises an unforgettable journey through the island's flavors.

Visitors to the festival will have the opportunity to taste authentic Madeiran dishes prepared by local chefs and home cooks using time-honored recipes passed down through generations. The star of the show is undoubtedly espetada – succulent beef skewers grilled over laurel wood fires, a tradition unique to Madeira.

Other highlights include bolo do caco, a sweet potato bread traditionally cooked on hot stones, served with garlic butter. There will also be demonstrations of traditional cooking methods, including the art of preparing carne de vinho e alhos (marinated pork) and the famous honey cake that graces every Madeiran Christmas table.

The festival extends beyond eating, offering workshops where visitors can learn to prepare traditional dishes. Folk music and dancing groups will perform throughout the event, showcasing Madeira's rich cultural traditions alongside its culinary ones.

Santana is located on Madeira's north coast, approximately 35 minutes by car from Funchal. Free shuttle buses will operate from Funchal during festival days. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, as parking can be limited during peak hours.