Dearest Brothers,

With the XXVI Grand Chapter concluded, the dates for next year have already been announced and ideas are already taking root.

The XVII Grand Chapter will be the last of this term of the current Board and other Social Bodies. Over the past two years, we have introduced some changes to the format, seeking to meet the suggestions received and the expectations of everyone. We may not always have been as successful as we would have liked, but we are certain to have provided good moments and fond memories to all who visited us.

For 2027, it was decided to keep the Chapter format to just 3 days. This format does not prevent anyone who wishes to stay longer, by arriving earlier or extending their stay. The main difference compared to 2026 will be that the chapter will take place on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday instead of Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. We think this change will help those visiting us to manage their trip along with their professional life, and it will allow us, as an organization, to better manage transportation and will allow greater participation of members of the Enogastronomic Brotherhood of Madeira and their families in the recreation of the traditional panelo.

Thus, on the 1st day, Friday the 23rd, the program will consist of a welcome and dinner reception – and we will try to have it in Funchal to facilitate travel planning and arrival; on the 2nd day, Saturday the 24th, a day of full operation of the Market, traditional shops, and museums, the program will only start after lunch with the celebration of the Eucharist, the Solemn Chapter Session, and the commemorative dinner of the same; and, on the 3rd day, Sunday the 25th, the traditional and indispensable recreation of the traditional panelo.

As I said, the ideas are still germinating, we have countless contacts to make, and as soon as possible we will disclose program details, registration fees, and deadlines. It is likely that the number of registrations for the day of the Chapter will be limited for logistical reasons (transportation and spaces).

We hope that the XXV and XXVI Chapters were to your liking, that you feel you have reasons to say within your brotherhoods that it was worth participating, and we wish to see you again in 2027. The dates and general outlines of the program are published so that you can plan and book travel and accommodation in advance at still affordable prices.

With best regards and fraternal greetings,

Eduardo Ascensão

Comissão Organizadora do XXVII Capítulo 
da Confraria Enogastronómica da Madeira