If you’re looking for an experience that combines history, culture and a touch of magic, the Carnival of Venice is the event for you. This year, from 31 January until 17 February 2026, the city celebrates the mythology and spirit of the Olympics with a special edition entitled “Olympus.”
A bit of history: why is the Venice Carnival so special?
The origins of the Carnival are ancient, dating back to the Middle Ages, with documented festivities held as far back as 1094. This tradition evolved over the centuries, into a time of joyful madness, when strict social hierarchies would disappear behind masks and elaborate costumes. The masks, made of papier-mâché and adorned with precious stones, colours and fabrics, became synonymous with freedom of expression and defying the rules of the Most Serene Republic of Venice.
Iconic masks: a glimpse into tradition
The Bauta is perhaps the most well-known of the traditional masks. This white mask is rectangular, jutting out slightly where the mouth would be, so that the wearer could eat and drink without taking it off, protecting their anonymity.
Another symbolic example is the Moretta, an oval mask for women, usually made of black velvet and held to the face by biting a small button, making the wearer mysteriously silent.
Unmissable events at the Carnival of Venice 2026
This year’s programme is full of must-sees:
- Water procession in the Grand Canal (February 1): A river of colorfully decorated boats is led by masked rowers from Punta della Dogana to the Rialto area. Departure is scheduled for around 11:00 a.m.
- Venice Carnival Street Show (January 31st to February 17th): Traveling shows enliven the streets of Venice, Mestre, and the lagoon islands, bringing the joy of Carnival to every corner of the city.
- Festa delle Marie (february 7): The Feast of the Marys is an ancient tradition with twelve young Venetian women being chosen for their beauty and grace, in a water procession that recalls a true event from the city’s past. To find out more about this celebration, visit the official site of the event.
- Arsenale Water Show (from February 6th to 8th and from February 12th to 17th): Evening entertainment on the water with light shows, music and artistic performances against the spectacular backdrop of the Venice Arsenal.
Insider tips
Here are some tips on how to make the most of the Carnival:
- Wander the streets: away from the main events, the true spirit of the Carnival lies in the narrow streets and the less crowded squares. Here you’ll find some charming masks and discover some of the city’s hidden corners.
- Try the typical sweets: Don’t miss out on the frittelle (little dougnuts) or the galani (crispy pastries, known elsewhere as chiacchiere), both typical of the Venice Carnival.
- Take part in a masked ball: for an authentic experience, why not go to one of the masked balls held in the city’s historical palaces? Here’s the programme of private masked balls for 2025.
Venice beyond the Carnival
There’s no other city like Venice anywhere in the world, with its labyrinth of canals, historical palaces and wealth of culture. Aside from the Carnival, the city hosts major international events such as the Biennale of Architecture and the Film Festival, attracting visitors from all over the world. The city’s canals and streets have also been used as locations for classic books and films, and that’s why you’ll feel as if you’re on a set when you come here.
Taking part in the Venice Carnival is about soaking up the centuries of tradition, experiencing the city in a festive and engaging atmosphere. An unforgettable experience, to enjoy the magic and charm of Venice to the nth degree!
Happy Carnival, everyone!
