Mercado dos Lavradores Busy Days Before Christmas
In the days before Christmas, Funchals Mercado dos Lavradores feels crowded as shoppers prepare for the holiday table. Vendors said demand for seasonal fruit and vegetables was busy, making the market seem too small for the number of people inside. Regular customers arrive first, followed by others who traditionally shop closer to Christmas, keeping the aisles full throughout the day.
Vendors Say Sales Lower Than Two or Three Years Ago Despite Crowds
Even with heavy foot traffic, sellers say sales are not at the level seen two or three years ago. Vendors explain that while many people still come to the market, they spend less overall.
Higher prices have changed buying habits, leading customers to choose smaller quantities rather than filling bags as they once did. One seller noted that people still buy, but “leva pouco, mas leva,” meaning they take little, but they do buy.
Seasonal Products Like Tangerines and Garlic Dominate Christmas Purchases
Shoppers focus on traditional products linked to Christmas meals. Tangerines, garlic, new potatoes, cabbages, pineapples, and local fruit such as custard apples and guavas are among the most popular items. These products are used in classic dishes and family dinners. According to vendors, both Madeiran residents and some foreign buyers shop at the market, though demand remains careful and measured.
One customer explained why she comes to the market:
Because it’s much better. When we go to supermarkets, you don’t find fresh fruit like you do here.
Mercado dos Lavradores will close on Sunday and reopen on Monday.
Source: RTP Madeira
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