Vibrant parade of colors and music
On the night of June 27 to 28, 2025, the village of Ribeira Brava was the stage for one of the highlights of the Feast of Saint Peter: the popular marches that filled the center with color, sound, and enthusiasm. Fifteen groups, including guests from the island of Terceira, featured around 770 marchers who greeted the audience amidst a shower of applause.
The parade began immediately after the vigil Mass at 9:00 PM and the traditional procession in honor of Saint Peter. Although Saint Benedict is the patron of the parish, this celebration attracts thousands of visitors every year, establishing itself as one of the liveliest in Madeira.
The combination of vibrant costumes, infectious music, and well-rehearsed choreographies created a unique festive atmosphere, appreciated by both the local population and tourists visiting the island during this season.
After the parade, the celebration continued with a concert by Nininho Vaz Maia, starting at 12:15 AM, followed by the traditional Baile das Novinhas, which kept the party going until dawn.
Religious closure and pilgrimages
On June 29, the religious celebrations continued with the solemn Eucharist at 4:00 PM, presided over by the Bishop of Funchal, D. Nuno Brás, followed by a final procession through the village streets in honor of the patron saint.
Throughout the day, pilgrimages departed from various places in the parish, accompanied by a bazaar of local products in the churchyard and enlivened by the fireworks that marked the start of the celebrations at noon.
- Vale e Barreiro
- Cova
- Caminho Chão
- Fajã Flores
- Fonte Pinheiro
- Pomar da Rocha
- Achada
- Fajã da Ribeira
This set of initiatives reinforces the cultural and social significance of the Feast of Saint Peter in Ribeira Brava, valuing Madeiran traditions, promoting tourism, and strengthening community bonds in one of the most anticipated summer events in the region.
