The Venice Carnival is an iconic annual celebration that takes place every year according to the Lenten calendar. If you are planning on visiting, here are several key things you should know about this wonderful Venetian festival.
During Carnival of 2025, events will take place from the 22nd of February to the 4th of March. However, there are a few pre-carnival events planned for the 15th and 16th of February.
When and why the Venice Carnival Begin?
Its origins go back to 1296, when the Venetian government declared the day before Lent a holiday. The purpose of this celebration? To give the people a chance to enjoy a few days of freedom and make them feel that the government’s control was not that strict. Masks, feathers, harlequins, formal attire – what everyone, regardless of social class, gender, or religion, wore, leaving only their eyes uncovered to put the entire population on an equal level.
It featured vibrant masked balls and public celebrations with parades, music, and theatrical performances. Also included games, feasting on rich foods before Lent, and a mix of social and religious elements, setting the stage for today’s festivities.
However, these festivities could not always be celebrated; after the fall of the Serenissima in 1797, Napoleon banned Carnival costumes, except for private parties in Venetian palaces and the Ballo della Cavalchina at La Fenice. During the 18th century, the Venice Carnival gained popularity throughout Europe.
What is the Carnival and How to Enjoy It
It wasn’t until 1967 that public celebrations with masked parades began, reviving its traditions, although they were still private. In 1979, a program was created to involve Venetians in the celebrations and return to the origins of the Venice Carnival.
Today, this festival is celebrated every year and attracts about 3 million people who travel to Venice for Carnival. Now you can join the festivities, watch the parades, wear a mask, take videos of the music and dances, and most importantly, experience the joy they bring!
These celebrations take place in different locations of the city, starting with the grand opening, an ornately decorated ship goes through the Grand Canal to the Cannaregio district. You can watch from the shores and even dress-up for it if you feel like it.
The highest number of masked and costumed people gathers in and around Saint Mark’s Square, although you can also find costumed groups in various other squares throughout Venice. Nearby, Doge’s Palace hosts an annual themed party and offers views of the carnival in the piazza. It opens at 10:00 pm during the carnival, perfect for enjoying a lovely night after dinner.
There are so many events! You can get all the details in the online Venice Carnival Programme.
Tips for your Carnival Experience in Venice
- Depending on your availability, you can choose to stay for fewer or more days, but 3 days are ideal to experience both the Carnival and the Italian city, especially if it’s your first visit. The best location to stay at is Saint Mark’s Square.
- Museums will be open as normal. The 18th-century museums in Venice will remain open until 10:00pm, allowing you to see the Doge’s Palace, Museo Correr, and Ca Rezzonico illuminated at night!
- If you’re attending a ball, opt for a full, luxurious costume, but for street events, a stylish mask with elegant accessories is more practical.
- You can buy masks all over Venice, but also order one online before your trip. The perfect material is a papier-maché mask since it will adjust itself to your face, making wearing it a lot more comfortable.
- The weather in Venice during this season of the year is cold and damp. Be prepared for chilly and unpredictable weather. Dress in layers to stay warm, and wear comfortable shoes for walking. Since rain is possible, pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella.
Book a tour with us while you’re in Venice!
Joining us for a private or small group tour means you experience Venice alongside a knowledgable, friendly, and top-rated guide. We can get you into places in Venice that are exclusive and rarely open to the public! We’ll help you avoid the cliche and the crowds and instead experience the authentic Venice.
