Order No. 362/2026 authorises the distribution of 2.6 million euros for decorative lighting for the 2026 to 2028 Christmas, New Year's Eve and Carnival festivities.
The Regional Government of Madeira has approved a total amount of 2,697,947.29 euros to ensure the decorative lighting for the Region's main festivities over the next two years. The funds are intended to cover the costs of electrical connections and installations, maintenance, and the assembly and disassembly of the lighting decorations.
The costs are distributed across the following financial years:
The funding specifically covers:
For the year 2026, the expenditure is budgeted within the Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Environment and Culture. The costs for 2027 and 2028 will be included in the respective budget proposals. The order, signed by the regional secretaries for Finance and for Tourism, Environment and Culture, came into force on 28 July 2026.
The Regional Government will sign a programme contract with the National Society of Fine Arts, providing funding of up to €21,000. The grant will support the production and staging of an exhibition dedicated to Lourdes de Castro, presented from 28 March to 16 May 2026.
The Regional Government Council approved five public commendations for Madeiran athletes and the sports organisations they represent, following outstanding results in badminton, canoeing and figure skating competitions.
Luís Carlos Pereira Afonso has been publicly commended for his work leading the Madeira Military Band and his contribution to regional music and culture. He stepped down as conductor and principal director on 28 September, after six years in the role.