Venice Carnival 2026

Theme Venice Carnival 2024

​Photo by Graham Guenther on Unsplash
  

​The theme of Carnival 2026 will be announced in January 2026. We will update the information on this page as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get an invitation for a Carnival Ball

Enticingly romantic, that is what Carnival in Venice has been for ages. Visiting a Carnival Ball will be the highlight, but there are many other great things to do.

​Venice Carnival 2025 : Il Tempo di Casanova

Every Carnival has a theme, and for 2025, the Venice Carnival celebrates “Il Tempo di Casanova” to honor the 300th anniversary of Giacomo Casanova’s birth. Known for his adventurous spirit, intellect, and love of art, Casanova remains one of Venice’s most iconic figures. The 2025 edition promises to bring his world to life, immersing visitors in the romance and intrigue of 18th-century Venice.

For those eager to learn more about Casanova, there are several captivating films, series, books, and documentaries to explore. The romantic comedy Casanova (2005), starring Heath Ledger, can be rented or purchased on platforms like Amazon Prime Video. The BBC miniseries Casanova (2015), featuring David Tennant, offers a dramatic take on his life and is available on Peacock. Federico Fellini’s classic Casanova (1976), starring Donald Sutherland, provides an artful interpretation and can be found on select streaming services.  Michiel van Erp’s recent film A Beautiful Imperfection (2024) explores Casanova’s life through the lens of Lucia, his first and greatest love. This romantic drama delves into themes of identity, beauty, and resilience, offering a fresh perspective on Casanova’s world. 

Documentaries such as Casanova: The Art of Seduction (on Amazon Prime Video) and Casanova: Son of The Renaissance (streaming on YouTube) provide further insights into his multifaceted life. These resources allow visitors to delve deeper into the legacy of Casanova, enriching the experience of the 2025 Venice Carnival.

Books like Casanova’s memoir, History of My Life, available on Kindle and Google Books, provide a firsthand account of his remarkable adventures. Ian Kelly’s Casanova: Actor, Spy, Lover, Priest offers a well-rounded biography, while Laurence Bergreen’s Casanova: The World of a Seductive Genius explores his cultural legacy. 

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Key Events Celebrating Casanova's Adventures

• The Venice Carnival 2025 opens with the Festa Veneziana. Around 100 decorated rowing boats, led by masked rowers in 18th-century-style costumes, depart from Punta della Dogana at 11 a.m. The procession travels along the Grand Canal, reflecting the romance and mystery of Casanova’s Venice. Near the Rialto Bridge, a colorful display takes place before the celebration continues with a lively party in the Erbaria.
• ​Carnival Street Show: A vibrant highlight of the Venice Carnival, now inspired by the intrigue and charm of Casanova. International artists will perform music, circus theatre, clown acts, and more, transforming the historic city center, Mestre, and the islands into stages for creativity. Colorful street theaters and performances by mimes, stilt-walkers, magicians, and storytellers will bring laughter, wonder, and energy to audiences of all ages.
• "GIACOMO, A love story" at The Arsenale: An enthralling water show at Darsena Grande that will take audiences on a magical journey, combining the allure of history with spectacular visual effects.
  

According to artistic director Massimo Checchetto  the 2025 program revives the vibrant atmosphere of Casanova’s time, drawing inspiration from his memoir Histoire de ma vie. Events and performances will highlight the creativity and passion of 18th-century Venice.

Get an invitation for a Carnival Ball

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Embracing the Spirit of Casanova's Adventures

The Venice Carnival 2025 celebrates the 300th anniversary of Giacomo Casanova’s birth, running from February 14 to March 4. Titled “Il Tempo di Casanova”, this special edition pays tribute to one of Venice’s most iconic figures. Casanova, born in 1725, is remembered for his adventurous life, intellect, and love of art and beauty. This year’s Carnival intertwines the themes of love and Venetian magic, opening fittingly on Valentine’s Day.

During the presentation at Ca’ Farsetti, Mayor Luigi Brugnaro emphasized Casanova’s enduring significance as a symbol of 18th-century Venice’s charm, freedom, and refinement. “This edition is a journey through his era, his places, and the values that made him immortal. Three hundred years of magic, history, and adventures await,” he remarked.
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Artistic director Massimo Checchetto explained that the 2025 program revives the vibrant atmosphere of Casanova’s time, drawing inspiration from his memoir Histoire de ma vie. Events and performances will highlight the creativity and passion of 18th-century Venice, with celebrations taking place across the city, Mestre, and the lagoon islands.

Follow in Casanova's footsteps – Explore our special walking route

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Why Visit the Venice Carnival 2025?

Attending the Venice Carnival 2025 is a chance to embrace the allure of 18th-century Venice, a city alive with romance, artistry, and vibrant festivities. This year’s event invites visitors to celebrate the timeless charm of Venetian traditions while enjoying a rich program of performances, parades, and cultural experiences designed to captivate and inspire. With its blend of history, creativity, and spectacle, the Carnival offers more than just entertainment—it’s an invitation to connect with Venice’s enduring legacy. Whether strolling through its decorated streets or marveling at its lively performances, you’ll find yourself immersed in a celebration that brings the city’s past to life in the most unforgettable way.

Being a guest at one of the most exclusive private masquerade carnival balls in an authentic palazzo, makes your stay unforgettable. 

Discover the Russolo Family's carnival balls

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What are the must-see Events at the Venice Carnival 2025: Highlights

1. Valentine’s Day Celebration
Date: February 14, 2025
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Piazza San Marco
Description: A special evening celebrating love, featuring music and entertainment in the iconic St. Mark's Square .

2. Festa Veneziana – Water Parade
Date: February 16, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: From Punta della Dogana to Rialto
Description: A vibrant water parade featuring decorated boats with masked participants, showcasing Venice's unique spirit.

3. Arsenale Carnival Experience – Grand Opening (a new event for a younger crowd)
Date: February 21, 2025
Time: 11:00 PM
Location: Tese of the Arsenale
Description: A glamorous evening of entertainment in the Arsenale's nightlife pavilion, marking the start of immersive Carnival events.

4. Festa delle Marie Parade
Date: February 22, 2025
Time: 2:30 PM
Route: From San Pietro di Castello to Piazza San Marco
Description: A historic parade celebrating twelve Venetian maidens, dressed in traditional costumes.

5. Arsenale Water Show
Dates: February 21–23 and February 27–March 4, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM
Location: Darsena Grande, Arsenale
Description: A spectacular water show featuring lights, music, and performances inspired by Casanova's adventures.

6. Best Mask Contest – Preliminary Rounds
Dates: February 24, 25, and 28, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: Piazza San Marco
Description: Participants display their elaborate costumes on stage, vying for a spot in the grand final.

7. Ball of Dreams
Date: February 22,  2025
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Palazzo C'a Zen ai Frari
Description: Private masked ball by the Russolo Family - on invitation.

8. Carnival in Burano
Date: March 1, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Burano
Description: Festivities include a children’s magic show, music in the square, float parades, and a final award ceremony for the best masked groups.

9. Grand Ball Carnival in Love: "Les Jardins de Venise"
Date: March 1,  2025
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Palazzo C'a Zen ai Frari
Description: Private masked ball by the Russolo Family - on invitation.

10. Best Mask Contest – Grand Final
Date: March 2, 2025
Time: To Be Announced
Location: Piazza San Marco
Description: The grand finale of the Best Mask Contest, awarding the most creative and elaborate masks.

11. Official Parade and Presentation of the Maria of the Venice Carnival 2025
Date: March 4, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Piazza San Marco
Description: The Carnival concludes with the official presentation of the Maria, celebrating the finale in St. Mark's Square.

Days and times can change. Always have a look at the official program.

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