The Carnival of Venice 2026 is just around the corner, and the city is ready to transform into a living masquerade. Also known as Carnevale di Venezia, this festive extravaganza turns the Floating City into a stage of artistry, history and revelry. Running from 31 January to 17 February 2026, the 18-day carnival invites you to unmask the grandeur of its timeless traditions through opulent masquerade balls, vibrant street performances and authentic European experiences. This guide is your key to unlocking the most unforgettable moments of the Venice Carnival 2026. Read on and get ready for unlimited fun as you don your intricate Venetian mask!
A Glimpse into the Heart of Venice Carnival 2026
The Venice Carnival (Carnevale di Venezia) is one of the world's most ancient and celebrated festivals, with roots tracing back to the 12th century. It was revived in 1979 and has since grown into a global spectacle, drawing millions of visitors to the Floating City. The 2026 edition promises a magnificent blend of historical reenactments, modern artistry and spontaneous street theatre. This year, the event is themed ‘Olympus – The Origins of the Game’ in honour of the Winter Olympics.
The key details of Carnevale di Venezia 2026 are given below:
- Date: 31 January 2026 - 17 February 2026
- Location: Venice, Italy
- Theme for 2026 Edition: Olympus - The Origins of the Game
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Key Events of Venice Carnival 2026
- Pre-Carnival 2026
A major highlight of the pre-carnival festivities is the Grand Carnival Ball with Bridgerton, which will be hosted at St. Mark's Square from 5 PM to 7 PM. The best part is that the entry to this event is free for all. Other lined-up events include Treasure Hunt Carnival, Decorate Your Carnival Mask, Venice Dress-Up Experience and La Traviata by Verdi followed by Carnival Gala Dinner 2026.
Date: 31 January 2026 (Saturday)
- Venetian Water Festival (Festa Veneziana sull'acqua)
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The Venetian Water Festival marks the start of the Venice Carnival and is held on the first weekend of the celebrations. This spectacular aquatic parade begins at Punta della Dogana, with decorated boats gliding along the Grand Canal and concludes in the Rialto area. The first part usually takes place on the opening Saturday, followed by food stalls and entertainment on Sunday.
Date: 1 February 2026 (Sunday)
- Feast of the Maries (Festa delle Marie)
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The Feast of the Maries has been a key highlight of the Venice Carnival since the 1990s. The day commemorates the legend of twelve brides (the Maries) and their dowries, who were stolen by pirates on their wedding day and later rescued by Venetian heroes. The celebrations include the selection of twelve young women aged 18 to 28 for a grand parade and beauty contest. They set off from the traghetto at Santa Sofia in six gondolas, followed by their presentation to the public in St. Mark’s Square. The winning Maria is crowned on Shrove Tuesday and generally performs the ‘Flight of the Angel’ (Flight of the Lion) to mark the opening of the main week of celebrations. However, this year, the performance has been cancelled for security reasons.
Date: 7 February 2026 (3:30 PM)
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- The Cutting of the Bull's Head
The Cutting of the Bull’s Head is a symbolic and theatrical event rooted in Venetian history, marking a historic military victory of the Republic of Venice. Held in St. Mark Square, this traditional ceremony reenacts the moment of triumph through a dramatic public performance filled with pageantry and symbolism. Taking place in the early evening, the event blends history, folklore, and carnival spirit, offering visitors a glimpse into Venice’s past beyond masks and masquerades. Free to attend, it is a lesser-known but culturally rich highlight of the Venice Carnival, perfect for history enthusiasts.
Date: 12 February 2026 (5:30 PM – Free)
- Best Carnival Costume Competition
The Best Carnival Costume Competition is one of the most anticipated highlights of the Venice Carnival, celebrating creativity, craftsmanship and theatrical flair. Held in St. Mark's Square, this competition showcases the incredible creativity and craftsmanship of participants as they pose before the crowd and a panel of judges in their historical costumes and intricate Venetian masks. Open to individuals and groups, the event offers visitors a chance to witness the very best of Venetian costume artistry and experience the carnival’s elegance, imagination, and timeless pageantry up close.
Date: 15 February 2026 (Saturday - 4 PM)
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Tips for Attending Venice Carnival 2026
- Book accommodations early, especially those with canal views or in central locations
- Consider purchasing a multi-day Vaporetto pass
- Rent a full historical costume or simply purchase a beautiful mask
- Pack warm layers, waterproof outerwear and comfortable, waterproof shoes
- Arrive early for good viewing spots and be prepared for large crowds
- Make advance reservations for popular restaurants with Carnival-themed menus
- Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases and words for an enhanced experience
- Be open to spontaneous encounters
Venice Carnival 2026 is not just an event but an invitation to step into a timeless fantasy. From the elaborate Venetian masks and stunning period costumes to the historical reenactments and exclusive masquerade balls, every moment is imbued with magic and history. Whether you dream of dancing the night away in a grand palazzo or simply savoring the spectacle in Piazza San Marco, the Carnevale di Venezia offers an experience that will linger long after the last mask is removed. Book one of our Italy tour packages and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
FAQs - Venice Carnival 2026
Venice Carnival 2026 takes place from 31 January to 17 February 2026, with the most vibrant celebrations occurring during the final week leading up to Shrove Tuesday.
Most major events are held in St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), along the Grand Canal, and in nearby squares (campi) across the historic center.
Yes, many events such as street performances, costume parades, and public celebrations are free. However, exclusive masquerade balls and private events require paid tickets.
Wearing a costume is optional but highly encouraged. You can enjoy the carnival in everyday clothes or rent a traditional Venetian mask or costume to fully embrace the experience.
The most popular events include the Flight of the Angel, Best Carnival Costume Competition, Venetian Water Festival, and lavish masquerade balls held in historic palaces.
Yes, Venice Carnival offers family-friendly events, daytime parades, and activities suitable for children, especially in public squares during daylight hours.
Yes, Venice is extremely busy during carnival season, so it’s recommended to book accommodation and event tickets several months in advance.
Walking and vaporetto (water buses) are the easiest ways to get around, as Venice is largely pedestrian-only.
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