10 Best Festivals in Venice
Venice is famous for its rich cultural heritage, and its festivals are a blend of history, art, and tradition. Here are the 10 best festivals in Venice that you shouldn’t miss
1. Venice Carnival (Carnevale di Venezia)
When: February
Venice’s most famous festival, the Carnival, is known for its elaborate masks, costumes, and grand parades. The city turns into a spectacular showcase of artistic performances, masked balls, and street parties. Piazza San Marco becomes the center of festivities, offering a dazzling blend of Venetian culture and history.
2. Festa del Redentore (Feast of the Redeemer)
When: July
The Feast of the Redeemer is one of Venice’s most important religious festivals, held to give thanks for the end of the plague in the 16th century. It culminates in a magnificent fireworks display over the Venetian lagoon. Locals and visitors enjoy traditional meals on boats or in decorated homes, making it a joyful and lively event.
3. La Biennale di Venezia
When: May-November (every other year for art, every odd year for architecture)
The Venice Biennale is an internationally renowned art exhibition, showcasing contemporary art, architecture, cinema, dance, music, and theatre. With pavilions dedicated to different countries, it draws art enthusiasts from all over the world, making it one of the most prestigious cultural festivals globally.
4. Venice Film Festival (Mostra Internazionale d’Arte Cinematografica)
When: Late August-September
Founded in 1932, the Venice Film Festival is the oldest film festival globally. It takes place on the island of Lido and celebrates the best in international cinema. It’s a glamorous event, attracting filmmakers, celebrities, and cinephiles from around the globe. The prestigious Golden Lion award is given to the best film.
5. Regata Storica (Historical Regatta)
When: September
The Regata Storica is one of Venice’s most traditional and visually stunning events. It starts with a historical procession of boats and gondolas down the Grand Canal, followed by various boat races, including a competitive gondola race. The event celebrates Venice’s maritime history and is a feast for the eyes with its colorful costumes and boats.
6. Festa della Sensa (Feast of the Ascension)
When: May or June (on the Sunday after Ascension)
The Festa della Sensa commemorates Venice’s historical ties to the sea and the Serenissima Republic’s naval power. The festival involves a symbolic “Marriage of the Sea” ceremony where the Mayor of Venice throws a gold ring into the water as a sign of Venice’s bond with the sea. This event is followed by regattas and a historical reenactment.
7. Vogalonga
When: May or June
The Vogalonga is a non-competitive boat race that attracts rowing enthusiasts from all over the world. Participants row traditional Venetian boats over a 30 km course through the lagoon and its canals. The event is a protest against motorized boats and a celebration of Venice’s rowing tradition.
8. Epiphany Regatta (Regata delle Befane)
When: January 6 (Epiphany Day)
The Regata delle Befane is a quirky event where older male rowers dress as “Befana,” a witch from Italian folklore who brings gifts on Epiphany. They race down the Grand Canal in this lighthearted regatta, providing fun and entertainment to mark the end of the Christmas season.
9. Venice Marathon
When: October
The Venice Marathon is a major sporting event that attracts runners from around the world. The 42-kilometer course winds through the historic city and the surrounding countryside, offering stunning views of Venice’s canals, bridges, and iconic landmarks. The finish line near St. Mark’s Square provides an unforgettable end to the race.
10. San Martino Festival
When: November 11
The San Martino Festival celebrates St. Martin, and it’s particularly fun for children. They go around the city dressed as knights, singing songs, and receiving sweets and coins. The festival’s signature treat is a pastry in the shape of a horse and rider, symbolizing St. Martin. It’s a lively and family-friendly celebration of Venetian folklore.