The Mayor of Funchal, Miguel Silva Gouveia, accompanied by the President of ACIF, Jorge Veiga França, officially opened the 5th edition of the Aldeia Natal (Christmas Village), at the Praça do Município yesterday the 9th of December. The village will remain open until Kings Day, the 6th of January 2021.
During the opening, the Mayor extended his thanks to ACIF, saying that “the municipality’s partnership with ACIF has proven itself over the last few years as a way of boosting local commerce at Christmas time by allowing Madeiran craftspeople an opportunity of selling their crafts and supplementing their incomes.” He went on to say that he was determined that this years event would take place, despite the pandemic.”
He went on to stress that “safety is the motto of the municipality, and this year, the space has been adapted to reflect the current situation, and as such the walkways are larger allowing for more fluid circulation and in addition the village will have permanent assistants to ensure that safety is maintained at all times.”
In the 2020 edition, the municipality pays tribute to traditional Madeiran artisans, such as local village toy factories whose handmade toys are thought to come as a surprise to younger generations. There are twelve artisans working within the space, and this year, the Mayor, Miguel Silva Gouveia said that “this will be a more spiritual and traditional Christmas, allowing everyone to embrace local traditions and support local craftspeople.”
Finally, the President of ACIF invited everyone to visit and enjoy the Aldeia Natal, to take part in a diverse number of activities, buy locally made products and support the island’s economy.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
