Madeira’s Curral das Freiras Hosts 41st Festa da Castanha

Madeira’s Curral das Freiras Hosts 41st Festa da Castanha

The Festa da Castanha returns for its 41st edition, celebrating the chestnut in the heart of Curral das Freiras.

41st Festa da Castanha Takes Place Today and Tomorrow

The traditional Festa da Castanha in Curral das Freiras will run on October 31 and November 1, 2025, returning to the mountain parish for two days of music, food and local craft. The event is organized by the Casa do Povo do Curral das Freiras and is a fixed date in the island’s autumn calendar.

Organized by Casa do Povo With More Than 350 Costumes

One of the festival’s main attractions is the cortejo alegórico (allegorical parade). The municipality’s event listing says the parade often includes more than 350 costumes and several decorated floats, a colourful display that draws residents and visitors into the streets.

How to get to Festa da Castanha by Bus

Special Bus Service to Festa da Castanha on November 1, 2025

Visitors can reach Curral das Freiras comfortably via the reinforced route 81 on November 1. Departures from Funchal start at Rua José da Silva Saca, near the cable car, and return from Curral das Freiras at the stop by Bar Serafim. Adult fare is €2.60 per trip; children 6–12 pay €1.30, and under 5 travel free. All valid transport passes are accepted.

O Ciclo da Castanha no Curral das Freiras

Honouring the Chestnut Since 1983

The Festa da Castanha was first held on November 1, 1983, making this year’s edition the 41st celebration of a local harvest tradition that honours the chestnut and the island’s mountain farming culture. The event has been used to showcase local food, folklore groups and regional products since its creation.

Comments