Festivals-Regattas-Events | Venice Carnival

Venice Carnival 2026-Program of Events

Venice Carnival 2026-Program of Events. Discover all you need to know about one of the most famous Carnivals in the world. Stunning costumes and iconic Venetian masks, transform the city in a magical way and reflects the grandeur of Venetian history and culture.

Venice’s Carnival attracts about 3 million visitors annually, making it the city’s largest celebration, with activities for all ages and a mix of dress codes.

In 2026, the Carnival runs from January 31 to February 17 (core events from February 7 to 17). Each year brings a new theme, and for 2026 it is, “Olympus – At the Origins of the Game” (“Olympus – Alle origini del gioco”), celebrating Italy hosting the Winter Olympics and Paralympics in Milan-Cortina; blending history, art, and sport to honour the spirit of play and challenge.

Free public events include historical re-enactments, parades, water regattas, street performances, live music, and mask and costume contests. At extra cost, guests can attend official dinners, private parties, and masked balls in stunning Venetian palaces, recreating the grandeur of past Carnivals – early booking is advised as spaces are limited.

Smaller private events fill the core program: mask-making and decorating workshops, concerts, pub crawls, and even dinners onboard a galleon; all add to the festive atmosphere.

In keeping with the current Mayor’s goal of making the Carnival more engaging and inclusive for younger generations, included is a section highlighting events that are more affordable, spontaneous, and have a relaxed dress code.

Finally, there’s a section on the program of events for the Burano Carnival 2026, which are popular and suited to all age ranges. Also, those who stop in Mestre can see a lot of interesting things: shows and concerts by musicians, performances by acrobats and street actors. Many take place in Piazza Ferretto, where the Mestre Carnival Street Show is held.

Introduction

Program of Events for the 2026 Venice Carnival

Pre-Carnival and Core Events

Private Parties and Balls

Other event ideas running throughout the carnival

Night-time entertainment at the Venice Carnival, especially for the younger set

Burano Carnival Program

Carnival events in Mestre

Future Carnival Dates

A Celebratory Poem, on the 2026 theme “Olympus – At the Origins of the Game”

Links (external–internal)

Please Note. As of 22.11.2025, the Official Carnival Website Carnevale di Venezia – Official site ENGLISH as of 20.11.25, has not yet published their full program of events. It presently states that “The complete programme and all the interesting facts about “Olympus – Alle origini del gioco / At the origins of the game” will be revealed in the coming weeks on the official website and on the social media channels of the Venice Carnival. I have made every effort to ensure the information that is available so far is accurate. Keep checking over the next few weeks.

Introduction – Venice Carnival 2026: Program of Eventsl update the post

The Venice Carnival 2026, scheduled from January 31st to February 17th, (core-events – February 7 to 17th), has the theme of “Olympus – At the Origins of the Game” (“Olympus – Alle origini del gioco).

In 2026, Italy hosts the Winter Olympics and Paralympics in Milan-Cortina, and Venice will celebrates the Olympics with a theme that intertwines history, art, and sport, paying tribute to the universal themes of play and challenge.

The city will reflect and echo the values that unite people: loyalty, passion, courage, and inclusion, a collective narrative where limits become strengths and diversity becomes a valuable resource.

The theme for 2026, evokes mythology and the harmony of body and mind, but also recalls the Venice of centuries past, when Carnival was a grand stage for competitions, acrobatic performances, and feats of collective skill – a precursor to the spirit of the modern Olympics.

Venice, the city on the lagoon, has always known how to transform competition into spectacle, and a challenge into a celebration. Luigi Brugnaro, the Mayor of Venice explains –“The Carnival will extend a universal welcome, embracing both Italy and the Milan-Cortina Games and symbolically connecting the lagoon and the mountains. In the spirit of sport, we aim to celebrate unity, respect and inclusion for all, because true victory lies in participation, sharing and belonging to a community, which is particularly important for our younger generations.”

It has been reported that the painting by Gabriel Bella below, will form the basis for the Carnival’s official poster. It certainly fits the theme for 2026! Today, the painting is displayed at the Querini Stampalia Foundation in Venice, which houses many of Bella’s works. His paintings are not dated to a single year but rather to a production period, reflecting his long engagement with documenting Venetian life. The 1779–1792 range is typical for his carnival scenes, which capture the vibrancy of Venice at the time.

“La festa del giovedì grasso in piazzetta“ (“The Fat Thursday Celebration in the Square”) by Gabriel Bella. 1779-1792.

A Brief Word about Security

While the Venice Carnival is a fun and exciting event, it is essential to follow basic safety and etiquette rules to ensure an enjoyable experience for all.

Firstly, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and keep an eye on their belongings, as pick-pocketing and petty theft can be a potential problem in crowded areas. Store valuables, phones and documents in front pockets or bags, preferably zipped. Use hotel safes and carry copies of important documentation. Visitors should also be respectful of the local culture and traditions – masks or costumes that may be considered offensive or inappropriate. It is also essential to remove masks when entering churches or other places of worship as a sign of respect.

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Program of Events for the 2026 Venice Carnival

Before the main festivities of the Venice Carnival 2026 commence (core events), the city becomes animated with an array of captivating pre-carnival events. From early January onwards, both Venetians and visitors can partake in a series of enchanting activities that set the stage for the grand carnival. Elegant masquerade balls, hosted in historic palazzos, offer a glimpse into Venice’s aristocratic past, where guests don elaborate costumes and masks, stepping back into a bygone era of opulence and intrigue.

Simultaneously, lively street performances and musical concerts in picturesque squares such as Piazza San Marco, add a modern twist to the pre-carnival atmosphere; enticing crowds with their vibrant energy and artistic flair. These events not only build anticipation for the main carnival days, but also highlight Venice’s cultural richness and enduring allure, as a hub of artistic expression and festive revelry.

The festivities of the Venice Carnival can be regarded as a series of historical re-enactments and celebrations. In recent years, several new events have been introduced, distinguishing it from other renowned carnivals such as those in Brazil and Germany.

The festival can be quite hectic and crowded, but with some basic information and research, you can make your trip more enjoyable and certainly enhance your photo opportunities. It’s a fantastic time to visit Venice and immerse yourself in the magic of the carnival!

Pre-Carnival Events:

Carnival Shows – Music, Circus Theater, Acrobatics and Clowns. From January 31st onwards in Campo Margherita, Giacomo, Geremia, Cassiano, Gesuiti, Formosa, Elena, Galuppi Burano: 10:00-13:00, 15:00-19:00 Free.

Street Theatre Shows: From January 31st onwards. Campo Stefano 11:30, 12:30, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00 Free

“Floating Parade“: Sunday 1st February. It consists of typical Venetian boats and is led by the Pantegana boat, which has the suspicious shape of a rat. Water has always played an important role for the lagoon city of Venice, so the rowing parade with hundreds of masked performers, thrill spectators every year. The boats will gather at Dogana da Mar next to the Salute Church at 10:30 AM, depart at 11:00 AM, and the event will include the explosion of the “Pantegana” in front of the Rialto Bridge at 11:20 AM. The boats will then arrive at Campo de l’Erbaria Square at Rialto at 11:30 AM

Core Carnival Events:

Saturday, February 7th Festa delle Marie (Marie Festival). . Opening the core festival, the procession of Venice’s most beautiful girls commences at the Traghetto in Santa Sofia. They will then board a gondola (two in each boat) and be presented in St. Mark’s Square. The girl deemed the most beautiful is awarded the title of Maria of the Year and will represent the following year’s Flight of the Angel.

Carnival Costume Parade St.Mark’s Square 9:00 to 17:00 Free

Contest Best Carnival Costume St Mark Square, 12:00, 16:00, 17:00 Free

The Grand Opening “Floating Parade” is scheduled to begin at 6:00 PM, along the Grand Canal. Decorated boats with glowing lights glide down the Grand Canal. Live music: Performers and musicians accompany the procession, creating a festive atmosphere. Starts at the Punta della Dogana (near the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute) and finishes at Rialto Bridge.

Sunday, 8th February.

Flight of the Angel in St Mark’s Square. 12.00

Sunday 15 February.

Flight of the Eagle. From St Mark’s Campanile. 12:00

Tuesday 17 February.

12:00 The Flight of the Lion from St. Mark’s Campanile.
15:00 Presentation of the Mary of the Year 2026 in St. Mark’s Square
16:30 Parade of Most Beautiful Costumes from the contest in St. Mark’s Square
Carnival Costume Parade 9:00 to 17:00 St.Mark Square

The magnificent Arsenale Water Show. The Arsenale Water Show at Venice Carnival 2026 will run on multiple evenings between 7–17 February 2026, usually starting at 21:00 (9:00 PM) at the Darsena Grande inside the Arsenale. It features illuminated boats, acrobatics, dance, and music.

Here’s the Arsenale Program for Venice Carnival 2026 (Tentative at present, until officially published)
Date – Event – Time – Highlight
Feb 7, 2026 Opening Night Water Show 21:00 Grand illuminated boat parade leading into the Arsenale
Feb 8, 2026 Water Show + Flight of the Angel (daytime in San Marco) 21:00 Evening immersive light and dance performance
Feb 9–11, 2026 Daily Arsenale Water Show 21:00 Casanova-themed choreography with music and storytelling
Feb 12, 2026 Special Carnival Dinner + Arsenale Show 21:00 Masked gala dinner followed by water spectacle
Feb 13, 2026 Arsenale Water Show 21:00 Pyrotechnic finale over the lagoon
Feb 14–15, 2026 Carnival Floats Parade + Arsenale Show 21:00 Daytime float parade, evening water show
Feb 16, 2026 Arsenale Water Show 21:00 Dance and acrobatics on floating stage
Feb 17, 2026 Closing Night Water Show 21:00 Finale with fireworks and music

Carnival Official Dinner Shows. February 7-8 and February 12-17 – Glamorous evenings at Ca’ Vendramin Calergi Palace.

Burano Island Carnival. Don’t forget these great events in a section below. Full details will be published nearer to the time, but are based on previous years programs.

Carnival events in Mestre. Many families choose Mestre’s Carnival celebrations for their affordability and friendly, community feel. Direct transport connections to Venice historic centre.

Venice Carnival private parties and masked and costumed balls

The Venice Carnival is a public event and many of the activities, such as the parades and open-air concerts, are free to attend. If you plan to participate in specific privately run events or activities, such as masked balls, private parties, carnival cruises, concerts and workshops; you need to pay admission fees.

Venice Carnival private parties and masked and costumed balls are among the most elegant, enjoyable, and spectacular events. There are numerous types of masked parties in Venice to choose from, with masks and costumes being compulsory. Many begin with an aperitif and buffet, followed by an elegant gala dinner on the main floor of the palace. These dinners are always accompanied by live performances, artists, and music, which continue throughout the evening. You might be able to attend the celebrations after the dinner, at a greatly reduced cost.

Ticket prices for these most exclusive Balls and Private Party events, at the Venice Carnival can vary. They typically range from about €100 up to €5,000 per person; depending on the event and its level of luxury and exclusivity. If you choose to include a costume rental as part of your experience, you could expect an additional cost ranging from €100 to €1100, depending on the intricacy and exclusivity of the costume.

Here are some suggestions to consider:

The Official Carnival Dinner Show and Ball. Glamorous evenings at Ca’ Vendramin Calergi Palace. February 7-8 and February 12-17. Try this website to get an idea of the dates and what’s offered (from Euro 600 and costume hire Euro 100-350): Venice Events Carnival 2026
If you are feeling flush, the finest Venetian ball of all: The Doge’s Ball (Euro 800-5000 and costume Euro 350-1100) Spectacular website imagery. See their fantastic video in the links section below. Il Ballo del Doge Website | The most exclusive carnival event in the World
This website will give you a wide range of the daily private events at lesser cost. Get your Guide – Venice Carnival 2026

Try this great website to enquire/check availability/book these events, and get details of: Location – Dress Code and Hire – Price per person – Information/Website details. NOTE: A few event details to be updated.

Venice Carnival 2025: all the events

Saturday 31st January to Friday 13th February 2026.

CARNIVAL MASKED BALL – saturday 31st January 2026
DON GIOVANNI – saturday 7th February 2026
BALL OF DREAMS – saturday 7th February 2026
CARNIVAL EXTRAVAGANZA – saturday 7th 2026
MINUETTO BALL – sunday 8th February 2026
BALL MINUETTO 1800 – thursday 12th February 2026
THE COURTESANS OF THE DOGE – friday 13th February 2026
CARNIVAL EXTRAVAGANZA – friday 13th 2026
OFFICIAL DINNER SHOW – 2026 edition not yet available
MEMORIES OF LOVE – 2026 edition not yet available
BAL MASQUE’ TIEPOLO – 2026 edition not yet available
Doge Ball Venice Carnival show
Ball fo Dreams – mascked ball

Saturday 14th February to Tuesday 17th February 2026.

CARNIVAL IN LOVE – saturday 14th February 2026
TIEPOLO BALL – saturday 14th February 2026
THE DOGE’S BALL – saturday 14th February 2026
THE LEGEND OF CASANOVA – saturday 14th February 2026
DALLE ROSE BALL – saturday 14th February 2026
BALL MINUETTO 1800 – sunday 15th February 2026
MINUETTO BALL – monday 16th February 2026
MOON MASQUERADE – 2026 edition not yet available
VENETIAN REFLECTIONS – 2026 edition not yet available
OFFICIAL DINNER SHOW – 2026 edition not yet available
CARNIVAL PARTY CRUISE – dates on calendar

Other Carnival event ideas offered through major ticket agencies, throughout the carnival – listed in links section below, OR, search through your browser the following events listed below:

Venetian Mask-Making Workshops: Throughout the carnival. Enthusiasts and visitors alike engage in these workshops to learn the ancient craft of mask making, crafting their own unique and personalized masks using traditional techniques, creating a deeper connection to the rich cultural heritage of Venice and the mystique of the carnival season.

Decorate your Carnival Mask.

Mask Carnival Bar/Pub Crawl

Venice Carnival Photoshoot

Various Classical Music concerts

Various Opera productions

Jazz concerts

Dinner Cruise on a Galleon

Entertainment at the Venice Carnival, especially for the younger set.

Venice Carnival also has its own nighttime entertainment hub, spread throughout the historic city, Mestre and Lido; from themed parties to DJ sets with electronic music.

Visitors can enjoy lively nightlife at clubs and bars, such as Piccolo Mondo Disco (Venice’s oldest nightclub), Aurora Beach Club, and Chet Bar, while free public nighttime events include the Arsenale Water Show, the Grand Opening “Floating Parade”, and street concerts in St. Mark’s and other main squares.

Why These Events Stand Out for Young People?

Affordable or free options: Street concerts and bar crawls don’t require expensive tickets.
Social atmosphere: Events encourage mingling, dancing, and meeting other travellers.
Modern twist: DJ sets and club nights add contemporary energy to the historic Carnival.
Flexibility: You can join public events spontaneously without strict dress codes.

Popular Nighttime Events

Arsenale Water Show A spectacular evening event at the historic Arsenale featuring light displays, music, and water performances. It’s one of the most energetic Carnival nights, drawing a younger audience with its festival vibe.
Venetian Bar/Pub Crawls Organized bar/pub tours through Venice’s narrow streets and squares. These are informal, costume‑friendly nights where young travellers mingle, dance, and enjoy affordable drinks.
DJ Parties & Club Nights Several venues host modern Carnival parties with DJs, electronic music, and themed dance floors. These events blend Venetian tradition with contemporary nightlife, appealing to students and young professionals.
Street Concerts & Performances St. Mark’s Square and smaller piazzas host open‑air concerts, fire dancers, and jugglers. These free nighttime spectacles are accessible and lively, perfect for younger visitors on a budget.
Youth‑Friendly Masquerade Balls While some palace balls are exclusive, others offer more affordable tickets aimed at younger audiences. These combine the elegance of Venetian masks with a more relaxed, party‑like atmosphere.

Burano Carnival Program 2026

The official Burano Carnival 2026 program has not yet been fully published. What is confirmed is that Burano will host its own island festivities between 7–17 February 2026, in parallel with the Venice Carnival. Based on past editions, here’s a detailed day-by-day style breakdown of what you can expect in Burano, drawn from local traditions and the official Venice Carnival schedule

The ACTV connections from Burano to Venice, Murano and Treporti are guaranteed throughout the day, evening and night.

Burano’s program is smaller and more community-oriented than Venice’s, but deeply colorful thanks to the island’s painted houses.
Events are subject to change; the official schedule will be updated closer to February 2026.
Visitors can easily combine Burano’s intimate carnival with Venice’s grand spectacles like the Flight of the Angel and Festa delle Marie.

Saturday, 7 February – Opening Parade
- Children’s costume parade through Burano’s main square.
- Local bands and folk groups perform.
- Food stalls open with fritole and galani.
Sunday, 8 February – Family Day
- Mask contest for children and families.
- Puppet shows and street performers.
- Evening dancing in Piazza Baldassarre Galuppi.
Monday, 9 February – Community Games
- Traditional lagoon games and competitions.
- Local school groups present carnival skits.
- Food tastings of Burano’s seafood specialties.
Tuesday, 10 February – Costume Contest
- Adults’ costume parade with prizes for creativity.
- Live music from Venetian folk ensembles.
- Craft workshops on mask-making.
Wednesday, 11 February – Midweek Celebration
- Street theatre performances.
- Children’s treasure hunt around Burano’s colorful houses.
- Evening DJ set in the square.
Thursday, 12 February – Carnival Thursday
- Traditional highlight day across Venice and Burano.
- Parade of floats decorated by local associations.
- Fireworks over the lagoon (weather permitting).
Friday, 13 February – Youth Night
- Teen-focused events: music, dance, and contests.
- Masked karaoke competition.
- Food stalls open late.
Saturday, 14 February – Valentine’s Carnival
- Couples’ costume contest.
- Romantic lantern release over the lagoon.
- Live band concert in the square.
Sunday, 15 February – Grand Parade
- Main Burano parade with floats, costumes, and music.
- Prize-giving ceremony for best masks and floats.
- Community dinner with traditional dishes.
Monday, 16 February – Children’s Carnival
- Dedicated day for kids: games, clowns, and sweets.
- School groups perform carnival songs.
- Evening family dance.
Tuesday, 17 February – Shrove Tuesday Finale
- Closing parade and final mask contest.
- Burning of the “Carnival effigy” to mark the end of festivities.
- Fireworks and music to close the season.

Carnival Events in mainland Mestre

Mestre, the mainland district of Venice, organizes parallel events to make the Carnival accessible beyond the lagoon.

Mestre has a laid-back, local atmosphere compared to the busy Venetian lagoon. It’s more convenient for those staying on the mainland, with direct transport connections to Venice. Many families choose Mestre’s Carnival celebrations for their affordability and friendly, community feel.

Street parades: Colorful floats and masked groups marching through Mestre’s central streets.
Concerts and live music: Local bands and orchestras performing in Piazza Ferretto.
Children’s activities: Puppet shows, costume contests, and workshops for families.
Food fairs: Carnival sweets like fritole and galani, plus local Venetian specialties.
Marghera On Ice: Ice skating and winter-themed shows at Piazza Mercato in nearby Marghera.
Open-air performances: Street artists, jugglers, and dancers animating Mestre’s squares.

Future Carnival Dates

The dates of the Venice Carnival follow Italy’s liturgical calendar, so they change each year. The festival could start anywhere from late January to late February.

2027 Wednesday, January 27 – Tuesday, February 9
2028 Saturday, February 19 – Tuesday, February 29
2029 Saturday, February 3 – Tuesday, February 13

Venice Carnival 2026-Program of Events Venice Carnival 2026-Program of Events Venice Carnival 2026-Program of Events

A Celebratory Poem on the theme of 2026 – “Olympus – At the Origins of the Game”

Beneath Venetian skies of flame,
We gather for the Carnival’s acclaim,
Masks of gold, of azure gleam,
Echoing Olympus, the primal dream.

Gods descend on gondolas bright,
Apollo sings, Athena takes flight,
Zeus thunders laughter across the square,
While Dionysus pours joy through the air.

From marble halls to canals that flow,
The origins of the Game we know,
Strength and wit, in festive embrace,
Each soul a champion, each mask a face.

The city becomes a myth reborn,
Where mortals and immortals adorn,
Olympus whispers, Venice replies,
A dance of stars beneath the skies.

So raise your voice, let trumpets proclaim,
The Carnival’s glory, eternal flame,
For here we play, as gods once did,
At the origins of the Game amid.