From 14 February to 4 March 2025, Venice Carnival will once again dazzle visitors. This year marks the 300th anniversary of Giacomo Casanova’s birth, making him the central theme. The invitation is to embrace the game, love, and intrigue that defined both his life and 18th-century Venice.
Are you ready for Venice Carnival 2025?
A Grand Opening and a Packed Calendar
The celebrations begin on 14 February, Valentine’s Day, with a spectacular evening in Piazza San Marco. At 6:30 pm, music, opera, dance, and theatrical performances will set the stage for a romantic and thrilling festival. The Scream Your Love initiative also returns, inviting visitors to declare their love in the heart of one of the world’s most romantic cities.
On 16 February, the traditional Water Parade fills the Grand Canal with decorated boats, celebrating Venice’s maritime history. From 21 February, the Arsenale Water Show brings Casanova’s adventures to life with dazzling fountains, acrobatics, and lighting displays. Throughout the city, the Venice Carnival Street Show offers performances in squares and along the lagoon islands, while allegorical float parades add vibrant colour to the mainland.
Immerse Yourself in the Carnival Spirit
Dress the Part
To truly experience Carnival, wear a mask and costume. This year’s theme calls for 18th-century attire, so think corsets, embroidery, and powdered wigs. If sewing isn’t your strength, Venice’s ateliers offer rentals for all budgets.
Enjoy Piazza San Marco at Dawn
Wake early and stroll through Venice’s most famous square before the crowds arrive. Fog drifting over historic buildings creates an ethereal atmosphere, perfect for capturing costumed revellers in timeless poses.
Indulge in Carnival Sweets
Start your day with Venice’s famous treats. Frittelle (filled doughnuts), Galani (crispy pastry dusted with sugar), and Castagnole (bite-sized fried dough) are must-tries, available in bakeries across the city.
Attend an Exclusive Masked Ball
For a lavish experience, secure a ticket to the Carnival Official Dinner Show at Ca’ Vendramin Calergi. Held on selected nights between 22 February and 4 March, the event features gourmet dining, theatrical performances, and a masquerade ball in an opulent 18th-century setting.
Make Your Own Mask
Venetian mask-making is an art form. Join a workshop near Piazza San Marco, where artisans will guide you in crafting a unique papier-mâché mask.
Iconic Carnival Events
The Flight of the Angel
One of the festival’s most awaited events, this daring spectacle sees the previous year’s Maria competition winner descend from the Campanile to Piazza San Marco. Expect an awe-inspiring display as the festival officially begins.
The Flight of the Lion
On Shrove Tuesday, the festival concludes with the Flight of the Lion. The golden-winged lion banner of Venice soars from the centre of Piazza San Marco back to the Campanile.
What Not to Do During Carnival
- Don’t Leave Plans to the Last Minute: Venice gets extremely crowded, so book accommodation and tickets well in advance.
- Avoid Peak Times: Weekends and Shrove Tuesday are busiest. Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
- Don’t Underestimate the Weather: February can be cold and damp. Dress warmly to enjoy outdoor events comfortably.
