VENICE CARNIVAL EVENTS AND TIPS
Venice Carnival season lasts about two weeks, culminating on the day of Carnival or Shrove Tuesday.
A few events mark the highlights of Venice Carnival:
Water Parade
The first Saturday and Sunday of Carnival, a parade of brightly decorated boats plies the Rio di Cannaregio starting at 6pm on Saturday, and continuing on Sunday from 11 AM. After the parade, food stalls open on the canalside promenade.
Festa delle Marie
On the second Saturday of Carnival takes place this historical procession that recalls the tradition of 12 of Venice's fairest young women being presented to the Doge. This parade, one of the few to take place on dry land, begins at via Garibaldi and culminates at Piazza San Marco.
Flight of the Angel
On the second Sunday of Carnival, a costumed angel "flies", suspended on a rope, through Piazza San Marco to greet the Doge.
Tips for Visiting Venice During Carnevale Season
Plan ahead and book your hotel well in advance for Carnival season, it is an high season period.
Carnevale is an elegant affair in Venice. People wear elaborate costumes and masks all over town so there's lots to see just by walking around.
Although the main events are centered around Piazza San Marco, Carnival events are held in every Sestiere.
Most high-end hotels hold masked balls, which are smaller and more private than the public events.
Carnival dates change every year, corresponding with Shrove Tuesday forty days before Easter. Check Carnival upcoming dates here and go to the Venice Carnival site for updated event information.
Carnevale is a winter event, so weather may be cold or rainy - see Venice Weather for average temperatures and rainfall.
The official website of the Carnevale di Venezia has information on these and all other public events associated with the festivities.
