Carnevale di Venezia (Venice Carnival) is undoubtedly one of the most famous carnivals in the world. The stunning costumes and iconic Venetian masks transform the city in a magical way, making you feel as if you’ve stepped into a different era. In this post, I’ll first explore the history of Venice’s carnival before sharing insider tips for this year’s main events.
The 2025 edition of Carnevale di Venezia runs from February 14 until March 4. The artistic director Massimo Checchetto has chosen ‘Il Tempo di Casanova’ as the theme of this year’s event to celebrate the 300th anniversary of Giacomo Casanova. While Piazza San Marco once served as the central stage, the festivities are now spread across Venice, its islands, and even the mainland.
History
The origins of the Venice Carnival date back centuries, though the exact timing remains uncertain. Most sources trace it to 1162, when Venice celebrated its victory over the Patriarch of Aquileia. Other accounts suggest that as early as 1094, Doge Vitale Falier and the government of La Serenissima allowed the city’s poorer citizens to enjoy a brief period of celebration. Over time, the carnival appeared and disappeared, with masks and festivities banned in 1797 under Austrian rule. The tradition resurfaced sporadically in the 19th century, mainly at private gatherings. It wasn’t until 1979 that the carnival was revived as a citywide event, thanks to initiatives by the government and Venetian institutions like Teatro La Fenice and La Biennale di Venezia.
San Valentino
February 14
The carnival opens on Valentine’s Day with an evening of music and entertainment on Piazza San Marco, celebrating the theme of love.
Note: check out my post ’San Marco: 11 surprising facts about the Piazza of Venice’ to discover some hidden details while you are awaiting the show.
Street shows
February 14 – March 4
There will be more than 1,000 performances of street art in the historical centre of Venice, the Venetian mainland and the islands of the lagoon. Around 100 companies and 200 artists will entertain the audience with music, circus theatre and clowning. Compagnia Pantakin will also curate a special Commedia dell’Arte program featuring comedians from various national and international companies. More details will be available at the end of January so keep an eye on this page for an updated version of this post.
Best Masked Costume Competition
February 14 – March 4
As soon as you step into the San Marco sestiere, you will be captivated by hundreds of marvellous masks and costumes. Take your time to admire the fine details of the costumes, as most of them spent hundreds of hours to create these fabulous pieces of art. The open competition allows participants to parade on the San Marco stage. The winner is announced on the last Sunday of Carnival (March 4).
Photography tip: For less crowded but equally picturesque settings, head to Campo San Zaccaria. The pink stone backdrop of the church beautifully complements the costumes. Alternatively, try getting a seat at Caffé Florian for iconic Venetian shots.
If you can’t make it to Venice, but you love watching these stunning costumes and masks, check out the book ‘Venetian Mask: Picture Perfect‘.
Festa Veneziana – Water parade
February 16
A spectacular water parade featuring hundreds of decorated boats and costumed rowers begins at Punta della Dogana at 11 AM. The procession moves along Canal Grande, ending at Rialto, where a lively celebration awaits in the Erbaria area.
Note: For more information on this area’s history, read my post ‘The unknown banking history of the Rialto area in Venice’.
Arsenale Water Show
February 21 – 23, February 27 – March 4
For the fourth year, the Arsenale hosts an extraordinary and exciting water spectacle at the Darsena Grande. The performances start at 7 PM and 9 PM and last approx. thirty minutes. The show depicts the adventures of Giacomo Casanova through dance, music, and narration. Don’t expect a traditional historical tale. I will be an evocative, image-driven journey told by Henriette, the only woman Casanova ever truly loved.
Note: Tickets are required and can be booked via the official site of Carnevale di Venezia.
Festa delle Marie
February 22
The parade of the Marie commemorates the Purification of Mary, originally involving the blessing of marriages and a dowry gift by the Venetian Doge to 12 poor Venetian girls. In 973, pirates disrupted the event, kidnapping the 12 brides and their jewels. The parade celebrates their rescue and Venice’s gratitude to the Virgin Mary.
The 12 ‘Marie’ are introduced in gondolas along Canal Grande and presented on the San Marco stage, wearing stunning costumes designed by Francesco Briggi of Atelier Pietro Longhi with Rubelli fabrics. The winner is crowned on March 4.
Fun fact: The word ‘marionette’ comes from this Venetian tradition, where wooden dolls eventually replaced real girls to save on dowries. These dolls were called Marie di legno or Marione. They were later reproduced in smaller sizes and named marionettes.
Carnevale dei Ragazzi
February 22 – March 2
Children and young people play an active role in the carnival, with workshops and events organized by La Biennale di Venezia at Ca’ Giustinian. Kids can create their own masks and costumes, fostering creativity and connection to Venetian traditions.
Masked balls and parties
February 22 – March 4
Venice hosts numerous glamorous masked balls and parties, though many come with steep price tags. They often include dinner, a show and music. One highlight is Il Carnival Official Dinner Show, organized by the Carnevale di Venezia. It is held in Ca’ Vendramin Calergi along Canal Grande on February 22 and 23 and from February 27 until March 4. This year’s party will celebrate the love of life and passion and immerse you in the heart of the 18th century, the time of Casanova.
For younger crowds, live music and DJ sets will take place at the Arsenale (Tese 92, 93, 94). These evenings take place on February 22 and from February 27 until March 4.
Can’t get enough of Carnevale di Venezia?
This post covers just a selection of the main events in the historic centre of Venice. Don’t forget to explore the happenings in Mestre, Forte Marghera, Lido, and Burano. For up-to-date details and last-minute changes, follow the official Carnevale di Venezia and Venezia Unica websites.
Carnival is one of the busiest times in Venice, attracting over 3 million visitors to the city. Once you’ve admired the parades and dazzling costumes, check out my tips in ‘9 insider tips to escape the crowds’ to discover quieter corners and enjoy the city at your own pace.
Buon divertimento!