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Venice Carnival 2025 – The City of Masks
Feb 22 – Mar 4, 2025

Venice Carnival 2025 – The City of Masks

Venice, Italy

Step back in time to the 18th century. Experience the mystery, elegance, and magic of the Carnevale di Venezia in the world's most romantic city.

About the Festival

The Venice Carnival (Carnevale di Venezia) is a festival unlike any other. It is an event of sophisticated elegance, mysterious masks, and history that dates back to 1162.

For two weeks, the sinking city turns into a living theater. St. Mark's Square fills with people in elaborate 18th-century costumes and porcelain masks, posing for photos against the backdrop of the Basilica.

While the streets are free for everyone, the night comes alive with exclusive Masquerade Balls held in historic palazzos, where guests dine and dance just like Casanova did centuries ago.

Festival Highlights

🎭

The Masks

Everyone wears a mask, a tradition that allowed social classes to mix anonymously. Buy a handcrafted one from a local artisan.

👼

Flight of the Angel

The official opening event where a costumed 'angel' descends on a zipline from the St. Mark's Campanile to the square below.

🛶

Water Parade

The 'Festa Veneziana on the Water' features decorated gondolas and boats sailing down the Grand Canal.

🏰

Grand Balls

Attend a luxury masquerade dinner (like the famous Doge's Ball). Tickets are expensive (€500+) but include costumes and dinner.

🏆

Best Costume Contest

Daily competitions on stage in Piazza San Marco where the most spectacular costumes parade for the judges.

🍩

Frittelle

Eat the traditional Venetian carnival donuts (fried dough balls served plain or filled with cream/zabaione), only available during carnival.

Essential Festival Tips

1

Weekdays are Better

Weekends in Venice during Carnival are overwhelmingly crowded. Visit mid-week to enjoy the costumes with breathing room.

2

Book Hotels Early

Hotels on the main island double or triple in price. Consider staying in Mestre (on the mainland) and taking the 10-min train in.

3

Bring Boots

February can bring 'Acqua Alta' (high tide flooding). Pack waterproof boots or buy plastic covers from street vendors.

4

Free Fun

You don't need to pay for balls. Just walking around St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge is a free open-air museum.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to wear a costume?

No, you don't. Most tourists just buy a small mask to wear or paint their faces. Full costumes are usually worn by dedicated locals and performers.

Is it cold?

Yes, Venice in February is cold and damp (around 5°C/40°F). Dress warmly in layers, especially if you plan to be outside watching parades.

Is it good for kids?

Kids love the masks and face painting! Just be aware that the crowds can be intense for strollers in the narrow alleys.

Explore Italy

Discover more about the country, its culture, and other top destinations to visit during your festival trip.

View Italy Guide

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