The Carnival of Venice is one of the most spectacular and historic celebrations in the world. Each year, the city transforms into a grand stage where elegantly masked figures, lavish balls, and timeless traditions bring centuries-old Venetian culture to life.
With Valentineās Day around the corner, many couples search for a uniquely romantic escapeāand what better place than Italy, one of the most romantic destinations on Earth? This year, the Venice Carnival runs from February 14 to March 4, 2025, offering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to step into a world of enchantment, mystery, and grandeur.
But hereās the thingāVenice gets packed during Carnival! Navigating the festivities can be overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. As someone with Italian roots who has experienced this celebration firsthand, Iām here to help you make the most of it. In this guide, youāll find everything you need to know to experience the Carnival like a true insiderāfrom its history and traditions to the most exclusive experiences you wonāt want to miss.
Ready to uncover what`s behind the masks? Letās begin!
The Origins of the Carnival of Venice
The Venice Carnival, or Carnevale di Venezia, is a centuries-old tradition with roots as far back as the 12th century when it was first mentioned in official documents. However, its true rise to grandeur came in 1296, when the Venetian Senate officially declared it a public festival. The celebration was meant to give the people a period of indulgence and revelry before the somber days of Lent, in keeping with the Catholic tradition of āfarewell to meatā (carne vale) before the 40 days of fasting.
During its peak in the 17th and 18th centuries, the carnival became a defining element of Venetian identity, allowing citizensāregardless of classāto mix freely, disguised by intricate masks and elaborate costumes. This era, often associated with Veniceās golden age, saw the rise of lavish masquerade balls, theatrical performances, and public spectacles. The anonymity provided by masks blurred social lines, enabling people from all walks of life to engage in activities that might otherwise have been frowned upon. The nobility could mingle with commoners, and intrigue, romance, and political discourse flourished under the cover of disguise. However, with the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797, Napoleon banned the use of masks, fearing that they facilitated conspiracies and political dissent. The carnival slowly faded from prominence, and by the 19th century, it had nearly disappearedārevived only in the 1970s, when the Italian government and Venetian institutions sought to reignite this magnificent tradition.
Today, the Carnival of Venice is a spectacular event that blends its rich history with modern-day splendor, attracting visitors from around the world who come to revel in its grandeur and mystery.
What to Expect at the Carnival of Venice
As you step into this timeless spectacle, youāll find yourself surrounded by a dazzling array of locals and visitors, each adorned in elaborate masks and opulent costumes, transforming the city into a living masterpiece. The air buzzes with excitement as Veniceās historic squares come alive with immersive performancesāfrom open-air theater and breathtaking acrobatics to classical concerts and even treasure hunts that add an element of mystery to the festivities.
At the heart of the Venice Carnival lies Piazza San Marco, where the daily costume parades are nothing short of a fashion show from another era. Here, artistry and craftsmanship take center stage, with an endless parade of ornate, handcrafted outfits that leave spectators in awe. The best of the best compete in dazzling costume competitions, showcasing the pinnacle of Venetian elegance and creativity. If you love people-watching, fashion, or photography, this is the ultimate place to beāa visual feast of colors, textures, and intricate details.
šø Insider`s Tip: Ā If youāre into photography, donāt forget to bring your camera! Youāll want to capture moments like the ones I tookābecause trust me, every turn in Venice during Carnival feels like a scene from a Renaissance painting come to life. š
An Atmosphere Like No Other
One of the most incredible aspects of the Venice Carnival is that everyone can take part. Simply sporting a beautiful Venetian mask and strolling through the cobblestone streets will instantly make you feel part of this magical world. I know I did! The whole time I was there, wandering the maze of cobblestone streets, fascinated by not only the architecture, the canals, and window shops, but also by the people dressed like I had only seen in movies, walking around me like I was indeed back to the 18th Century Italy.
And when I say everyone, I mean everyoneā you will spot people of all ages, from children to elderly Venetians, and yes, even dogs in the cutest Carnival costumes! Here are some photos I took of some of them. Itās a sight you wonāt forget!
But donāt expect anything like the Brazilian Carnival! Unlike Rioās sun-soaked, samba-filled extravaganza, Venice Carnival embraces mystery, elegance, and theatricality.
- First, itās winter! Average temperatures in February range from 7Ā°C to 10Ā°C (45Ā°F to 50Ā°F) during the day and can drop to 0.5Ā°C to 2Ā°C (33Ā°F to 36Ā°F) at night. Bundle up in warm, stylish layersāyou wonāt see anyone half-naked dancing through the streets here!
- Second, the concept is to impress through extravagance. In many cases, not only is there no skin showing, but you canāt even tell if the person behind the mask is a man or a woman! The artistry and attention to detail in the costumes are next levelāI was absolutely blown away by the uniqueness of each outfit, no two alike!
Highlights of the Carnival Experience
Whether you’re a casual visitor soaking in the atmosphere or a guest at an exclusive masquerade ball, hereās what you can expect:
ā Streets filled with hand-crafted, luxurious costumes ā The level of artistry is astonishing!
ā Gondola rides with masked figures, channeling classical Venetian romance.
ā Open-air performances in Piazza San Marco, featuring live music, acrobatics, and theatrical displays.
ā Opulent private parties and exclusive gala balls in historic Venetian palaces.
For those looking for the ultimate immersive experience, I highly recommend renting a full 18th-century Venetian costume and attending a gala eventāitās a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to step back into the golden age of Venice and experience its grand traditions firsthand.
Would you be up for dressing in full period attire and joining the masquerade? Because trust me, itās an experience like no other! And Experience Wanderlust can make it come true for you!
The Venice Carnival 2025 theme: A Journey Through Time with Casanova
The 2025 edition of the Venice Carnival promises a spectacular blend of tradition, history, and theatrical extravagance, all centered around this yearās official theme: “Il Tempo di Casanova” (The Time of Casanova).
Venice in the 18th century was a city of spectacle, seduction, and art, and Giacomo Casanova embodied it allāa man of charm, wit, adventure, and mystery. According to the Carnivalās Artistic Director, Massimo Checchetto, this yearās theme invites visitors to step into the golden age of Venice, when theaters flourished, masquerades ruled the night, and romance was an art form in itself:
“With the title ‘Il Tempo di Casanova,’ we want to embrace a broad period of time because the 18th century left a significant mark on our history. Casanova is the incarnation of playfulness, love, and folly, a true protagonist of this incredible centuryāVeniceās golden age of spectacle and art. I hope that this edition of the Carnival will transport us all to that fertile era and allow us to experience it as Casanova himself did. He was an elusive character, constantly changing, yet always tied to Venice, even as he traveled across Europe, leaving behind an extraordinary and faithful account of his time. I invite everyone to come to the Venice Carnival, not just to see it but to live and interpret it through his eyes.
āMassimo Checchetto, Artistic Director
Key Events of Carnival of Venice
This yearās program will bring Casanovaās Venice back to life, with grand events that blend historical reenactments with immersive experiences:
š Water Parades ā Graceful processions of elaborately decorated boats navigating the Grand Canal, echoing the opulence of 18th-century Venetian pageantry.
š Allegorical Floats ā Spectacular parades featuring extravagant floats inspired by Venetian history, mythology, and the lavish masquerades of Casanovaās time.
š Widespread Performances ā The streets of Venice transform into a stage, with street artists, musicians, and performers recreating the vibrancy of the 1700s, filling Piazza San Marco and beyond with the spirit of the era.
š Historical Reenactments ā Step back into the golden age of Venice through dramatic performances that showcase pivotal moments from Casanovaās world, from his legendary escapades to the grandeur of Venetian society.
This extraordinary edition of the Venice Carnival will transport visitors back in time, allowing them to experience the seduction, intrigue, and spectacle of the 18th century just as Casanova himself did.
āØ Will you dare to live Venice Carnival through the eyes of Casanova? Dress the part, embrace the mystery, and step into a world where masks conceal identities, romance is a game, and every street holds a story waiting to be told.
For a full program of events, visit the official Venice Carnival website:
š Carnevale di Venezia 2025
šø Want to see the magic unfold? Follow @experience_wanderlust_ on Instagram for exclusive photos, behind-the-scenes moments, and insider travel tips! šāØ
Venetian Carnival Masks & Their Meanings
The Venice Carnival is renowned for its elaborate masks, each with its own history and significance. I was really curious about it, so I decided to research the meaning of each of them. Here are some of the most iconic Venetian masks:
Bauta: The Bauta is a traditional mask that covers the entire face, characterized by a prominent nose, a thick supraorbital ridge, and a projecting “chin line” without a mouth. Its design allows the wearer to talk, eat, and drink without removing the mask, preserving anonymity. Historically, it was often accompanied by a red or black cape and a tricorn hat. In the 18th century, the Bauta became a standardized society mask in Venice, sometimes even required by the government for certain political events to ensure anonymity.
Moretta (Servetta Muta)
The Moretta, also known as “Servetta Muta” or “mute servant woman,” is a black oval mask traditionally worn by women. It lacks a mouth opening and is held in place by the wearer biting on a button or bit, rendering her unable to speak. This feature was believed to add an air of mystery and allure. The Moretta fell out of use around 1760.
Gnaga
The Gnaga mask resembles a cat’s face and was historically associated with male cross-dressers during the Carnival. Men would dress as women, don the Gnaga mask, and often carry baskets with kittens, engaging in playful and sometimes provocative behavior. The term “Gnaga” derives from the Venetian onomatopoeia for a cat’s meow.
Medico della Peste (Plague Doctor)
Originally designed for physicians treating plague victims, the Medico della Peste mask features a long beak and round eyeholes. The beak was traditionally filled with aromatic substances believed to ward off disease. Today, it has become a symbolic and popular Carnival mask, often elaborately decorated.
Pantalone
Based on a character from the Commedia dell’Arte, Pantalone is depicted as a cunning, old, wealthy man. The mask typically features a hooked nose and high brows, symbolizing intelligence and avarice. This character often wore a red costume and black cape.
Arlecchino (Harlequin)Ā
A beloved Commedia dellāArte character, Arlecchino is a mischievous, quick-witted servant, known for his playful antics and acrobatic movements. His half-mask, often black, features a short nose and arched eyebrows, reflecting his energetic and cunning nature. His costume is just as iconic, with a vibrant diamond-patterned outfit in red, blue, green, and yellow, originally symbolizing a poor servant wearing patched-together scraps, but later evolving into a symbol of wit and trickery.
Colombina
The Colombina is a half-mask that covers the eyes, nose, and upper cheeks, often adorned with gold, silver, crystals, and feathers. Named after a maidservant character in the Commedia dell’Arte, it is believed to have been designed for an actress who did not wish to cover her entire face. Both men and women wear this mask during the Carnival.
Exclusive Activities to Elevate Your Venice Carnival Experience
Create Your Own Venetian Mask: A Private Workshop
One of the most iconic symbols of the Carnival of Venice is the Venetian mask. What if you could design and craft your own mask just like the artisans of the past?
Join a private, hands-on mask-making workshop with a master Venetian craftsman in their atelier. Learn about the history and artistry behind these masterpieces, choose from luxurious materials, and create a personalized mask to wear during the celebrations.
I tried this experience, as you can see in the photos, and it was amazing. I love my mask, and it is a truly one-of-a-kind keepsake from your Venetian adventure!
Shopping for the Perfect Masquerade Ball Attire
The Venice Carnival is all about opulence and elegance, and no experience is more glamorous than attending an exclusive masquerade ball. But first, you need the perfect dress!
With Experience Wanderlust, you’ll enjoy a personal shopping experience at the most prestigious Venetian ateliers, where expert stylists will help you find a sumptuous period costume or an elegant Venetian gown. We will also arrange for the finest masks and accessories, ensuring you look absolutely stunning for the ball.
Private Boat Tour to Murano & Burano with a Glass-Blowing Workshop
Step away from the crowded streets and embark on a luxurious private boat tour to the islands of Murano and Burano, two of Veniceās most enchanting locations.
Murano: Witness a private glass-blowing demonstration with a renowned Murano artisan. Discover the ancient techniques of Venetian glass craftsmanship, and even create your own masterpiece.
Burano: Stroll through the vibrant streets of this colorful island, known for its lace-making tradition and charming canals.
Enjoy a chilled glass of Prosecco on board, taking in the breathtaking views of the Venetian Lagoon while cruising between these historic islands.
Stay in the Most Luxurious Rooms & Palaces
During the Carnival of Venice, accommodations in the city become scarce, and the most prestigious hotels book out months in advance. With Experience Wanderlust, you’ll secure exclusive access to:
- Luxury suites in historic Venetian palaces, offering breathtaking Grand Canal views.
- Private apartments in 16th-century buildings, ideal for those who want a more intimate experience.
- Exclusive boutique hotels, known for their impeccable service and rich Venetian charm.
Every stay is handpicked to ensure you experience Venetian luxury at its finest.
Exclusive Tables at the Most Desired Restaurants
Venice is a culinary treasure trove, but during the Carnival of Venice, reservations at the top restaurants become almost impossible to secure. Luckily, we take care of that for you.
With Experience Wanderlust, you will enjoy priority access to Veniceās most sought-after restaurants, where you can indulge in:
- Michelin-starred fine dining experiences, with exquisite Venetian dishes.
- Romantic candlelit dinners by the canals, with premium wine pairings.
- Private dining options in historic palazzos, for the ultimate exclusive experience.
Cooking Classes & Wine Tastings: A Gastronomic Adventure
Discover the flavors of Venetian cuisine with a private cooking class led by a local chef. Learn to prepare traditional Venetian dishes, such as sarde in saor, bigoli pasta, and frittole (Carnival sweets), all while sipping on fine Italian wines.
For wine lovers, we also offer private wine tastings, featuring the best selections from Venetoās top vineyards. Whether in a historic wine cellar or an elegant Venetian Bacaro, this experience is a must for any gourmet traveler.
Most Asked Questions About the Carnival of Venice
1.When is the Venice Carnival happening in 2025?
The Venice Carnival 2025 will take place from February 14 to March 4. The celebrations last for several weeks, with the most exciting events happening during the final weekend leading up to Shrove Tuesday.
2. Can I enjoy the Carnival on a budget?
Yes! While hotels and accommodations are more expensive during this period, there are plenty of free events throughout the city. You can wander through Piazza San Marco, admire the incredible costumes, and join public festivities at no cost.
At night, the party continuesāVenetian squares turn into open-air dance floors, with DJs playing music, and a mix of locals and tourists in masks dancing together. I had an unforgettable night like this, and you donāt need to spend a fortune to have the time of your life at Venice Carnival!
3. Arenāt the masks expensive?
There are masks for all budgets and tastes! Youāll find:
- Street vendors selling affordable masks, though many of these are mass-produced (likely from China).
- Handcrafted masks from local Venetian artisans, featuring unique designs and made using traditional techniques.
- Luxury, custom-made masks at exclusive ateliers.
- Or even better, make your own! Experience Wanderlust offers a Private Venetian Mask Workshop, where you can craft a one-of-a-kind mask with an expert artisan.
4. What should I wear to the Venice Carnival?
This depends on how much you want to immerse yourself in the experience!
- For casual visitors: A stylish outfit with a beautiful mask is enough to blend into the festivities.
- For those attending a ball or exclusive event: Full 18th-century Venetian attire is often required. Women wear elegant gowns, while men don intricate jackets with breeches, capes, and tricorn hats.
- For the cold weather: February in Venice is chilly (7Ā°C to 10Ā°C / 45Ā°F to 50Ā°F during the day), so wearing warm layers is a must. Gloves and stylish capes are popular and can enhance your Carnival look.
5. Isn`t Venice too crowded during Carnival?
Yes! The Carnival of Venice is one of the most famous events in the world, attracting thousands of visitors. If you want to enjoy the festivities without the overwhelming crowds, consider:
- Visiting during the first week, when the city is slightly less busy.
- Exploring early in the morning, when the streets are peaceful and great for photography.
- Booking exclusive experiences (like a private boat tour) to escape the masses.
6. Do I need tickets for the Carnival?
Most of the public eventsāsuch as costume parades, street performances, and concertsāare completely free. However, for masquerade balls, private dinners, and exclusive parties, you must purchase tickets in advance, as these events sell out quickly.
8. What are the must-try foods during Carnival?
Venetian Carnival is not just about masks and costumesāitās also a feast for food lovers! Some must-try specialties include:
- Frittelle (Fritole) ā A fried doughnut-like pastry, filled with cream, chocolate, or raisins.
- Galani (Chiacchiere in other regions) ā Thin, crispy pastries dusted with powdered sugar.
- Bigoli in Salsa ā A traditional Venetian pasta with anchovy and onion sauce.
- Sarde in Saor ā Fried sardines marinated in vinegar, onions, and raisins.
- Bellini ā The famous Venetian cocktail made with Prosecco and white peach puree.
9. Are gondola rides more expensive during Carnival?
Yes, gondola prices can be slightly higher during peak tourist seasons, including Carnival. The standard daytime price for a 30-minute ride is around ā¬80, and in the evening, it can go up to ā¬100 or more.
Tip: If you want to experience Venice from the water but at a lower cost, consider taking a traghettoāa simple gondola ferry that locals use to cross the Grand Canal for just a couple of euros!
10. Where can I buy an authentic Venetian mask?
For a genuine handmade mask, look for traditional mask ateliers in Venice. Some of the most famous places include:
- Caā Macana ā Known for their historical accuracy and film collaborations.
- La Bottega dei Mascareri ā A legendary mask-making family shop.
- Tragicomica ā Offers handcrafted masks and also holds mask-making workshops.
For the ultimate experience, you can also make your own mask with a private workshop through Experience Wanderlust!
11. How long should I stay in Venice for Carnival?
A 3 to 4-day trip is ideal to enjoy the main events, explore the city, and attend at least one exclusive experience. If you have more time, staying 5 to 7 days allows you to truly immerse yourself in the atmosphere, take a day trip to Murano and Burano, and explore Venice at a relaxed pace.
12. What about the Jubileum happening in Italy this year?
The 2025 Jubilee, themed “Pilgrims of Hope,” is a significant event in the Catholic Church, offering the faithful a unique opportunity for spiritual renewal and the reception of plenary indulgences. While Rome serves as the central hub for the Jubilee celebrations, various events are planned throughout the year, primarily within the city and in Assissi, so even though it is probable that people visiting Italy for the Jubileum could visit other cities, Venice won`t be the center of their route, especially during the carnival.Ā
š¬ Got more questions? Drop them in the comments, and Iāll be happy to answer! š
Plan Your Luxury Carnival of Venice Experience with Experience Wanderlust
The Carnival of Venice is a once-in-a-lifetime journey into Venetian splendor. Whether you want to attend a private gala ball, create your own mask, or explore Venice from a private yacht, Experience Wanderlust will design your perfect, tailor-made itinerary.
š© Ready to join the masquerade? Contact us today and let us craft your dream Venetian escape!
