will be held from 14 February to 4 March, offering a unique experience between tradition and modernity
This historic event transforms the city into an open-air stage, with elaborate masks, lavish costumes and a series of events celebrating Venetian culture.
Venice Carnival 2025 Main Events
The official programme of the Venice Carnival 2025 includes a series of unmissable events:
Festa Veneziana sull’Acqua: The inauguration of the Carnival with a spectacular parade of illuminated boats along the Rio di Cannaregio, accompanied by music and performances on the water.
Corteo e Festa delle Marie: A historical procession celebrating the twelve most beautiful girls in Venice, re-enacting an ancient tradition.
Volo dell’Angelo (Flight of the Angel): An iconic event in St Mark’s Square, where a special guest ‘flies’ from the bell tower to the square below, officially starting the celebrations.
Svolo dell’Aquila (Flight of the Eagle): Similar to the Volo dell’Angelo (Flight of the Angel), but with a different guest descending from the bell tower, adding an extra moment of spectacle.
Awarding of the Carnival ‘Mary’ and Svolo del Leon: The conclusion of Carnival with the awarding of the most beautiful ‘Mary’ and the Svolo del Leon, the symbol of the city, which officially closes the celebrations.
Private Parties and Masked Dances
In addition to public events, the Venice Carnival is famous for its exclusive private parties and masked balls, which offer the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of the 18th century in the city’s historic palaces. Here are some of the most anticipated parties for 2025:
Minuet of Love Ball: Saturday 15 February 2025, a romantic evening with dinner and period dancing in costume.
Ball of Dreams: Saturday 22 February 2025, a masquerade party with a gala dinner and shows, set in a historical palace.
Carnival Extravaganza: Saturday 22 February and Friday 28 February 2025, an evening dedicated to Giacomo Casanova, with dinner, shows and period costume dances.
Le Cortigiane del Doge: Friday 28 February 2025, a party evoking the Baroque atmosphere of the festivities of the Serenissima, with dancing, shows and live music.
La Leggenda di Casanova: Saturday 1 March 2025, an evening celebrating the famous Venetian seducer, with dinner, shows and dancing.
Il Ballo del Doge: Saturday 1 March 2025, considered one of the most exclusive events of the Carnival, with a gala dinner, shows and dancing in a historic location.
Tiepolo Ball: Sunday 2 March 2025, a masked ball in the Sale Apollinee of the La Fenice Theatre, with dancing and period music.
Advice for Visitors
Advance Bookings: Due to the high turnout during Carnival, it is advisable to book both accommodation and tickets for private parties well in advance.
Costume Hire: To participate in masked balls, a period costume is often required. Many Venetian ateliers offer rental services; be sure to book in advance.
Exploring Local Traditions: In addition to the main events, take the time to discover local traditions, such as tasting ‘frittelle’, typical Carnival sweets, and visiting handicraft workshops that produce masks and costumes.
The Venice Carnival 2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience, combining history, culture and entertainment in a unique setting.