Onion Festival
Festa da Cebola
Three-day May festival in Caniço celebrating the island's traditional Caniceira onion with food stalls, music, a parade and agricultural displays.
About Onion Festival
Onion Festival takes place in Caniço, Santa Cruz and runs every year around May. Three-day May festival in Caniço celebrating the island's traditional Caniceira onion with food stalls, music, a parade and agricultural displays.
Onion Festival is one of the events that shapes the island's year — locals book time off, restaurants adjust menus, and accommodation in Caniço, Santa Cruz fills months ahead. If you want to be part of it, lock in flights and hotels before the official programme is even published.
What to know before you go
- Accommodation in central Funchal sells out earliest — booking 3–6 months ahead is normal for the larger festivals.
- Public transport runs extra services during major events, but parking near the venue becomes very limited.
- Most events are free to attend in the streets; ticketed concerts or premium viewing areas tend to sell out fast.
Best time to visit
The event itself happens around May. Arrive a day early to settle in and see the build-up.
Location
Madeira, Portugal · Open in OpenStreetMap · Google Maps
32.65000, -16.85000
Frequently asked
When is Onion Festival?+
The next confirmed dates for Onion Festival are 2026-05-15 to 2026-05-17. The event recurs every year.
Where does Onion Festival take place?+
Onion Festival is held in Caniço, Santa Cruz, Madeira.
Is Onion Festival free?+
Street-level festivities are typically free to attend. Some ticketed concerts, viewing areas or special programmes are paid — check the official programme close to the dates.
Nearby on Madeira
Other places within easy reach of Onion Festival.