Venice Carnival

The Venetian Carnival (Carnevale di Venezia) is one of the world’s most famous and visually stunning celebrations, transforming Venice into a city of masks, costumes, and festive parades each winter. The event draws thousands of visitors who come to immerse themselves in a unique cultural experience blending history, art, and celebration. This guide covers the history of Carnival, traditional masks and costumes, key events, and tips for navigating the festivities with an interactive map like veniceXplorer.

Key Events During the Venetian Carnival

Carnival in Venice spans around two weeks, with events leading up to Shrove Tuesday. Here are some of the main events you won’t want to miss:

• La Festa delle Marie: This grand parade, held on the first Saturday of Carnival, reenacts a historical event honoring the “12 Marias,” or young brides. Participants dress in traditional Renaissance costumes and parade through the city, leading to a final celebration in St. Mark’s Square.
• Il Volo dell’Angelo (The Flight of the Angel): Held on the first Sunday, this is one of the most anticipated events. A “flying angel” (usually a famous Venetian or previous Carnival Queen) descends from the bell tower of St. Mark’s Square, symbolizing blessings for the festival. Thousands gather to watch this spectacle, which marks the official start of Carnival festivities.
• Costume Contests: St. Mark’s Square is the site of daily costume contests, where participants compete for the title of Best Masked Costume. These contests are open to anyone wearing a traditional costume and provide a chance to see some of the most intricate outfits and masks.
• The Grand Masquerade Ball: Venice’s masquerade balls are elegant, private events held in historic palazzos. One of the most famous is the Ballo del Doge, known for its opulent decor, gourmet dining, and live entertainment. Attending a ball requires purchasing tickets well in advance, and guests are expected to arrive in full costume.
• Water Parades: On select days, traditional gondolas and boats adorned with decorations sail along the Grand Canal, creating a festive procession on the water. The Festa Veneziana sull’acqua is an opening water parade featuring music and performances, setting the tone for the celebration.
• Street Performances and Concerts: Throughout Carnival, street performers, musicians, and acrobats entertain visitors with live performances in various squares. St. Mark’s Square and smaller campos become lively stages for both scheduled events and spontaneous performances.

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Tips for Enjoying the Venetian Carnival

Navigating Venice during Carnival requires some preparation to ensure you make the most of your experience. Here are a few tips:

1. Plan and Book Early: Accommodations and tickets for events, especially masquerade balls, sell out quickly. Booking your stay and any tickets several months in advance is essential for a smooth Carnival experience.
2. Dress Appropriately: Dressing up is part of the Carnival experience. Even if you don’t have a full costume, wearing a Venetian mask or festive attire adds to the celebration. Costumes and masks are available for rent and purchase in Venice.
3. Use an Interactive Map: With Venice’s maze-like streets, an interactive map like veniceXplorer can be invaluable for locating key event sites, such as St. Mark’s Square, popular ball venues, and nearby restaurants. The map helps you navigate the crowds and find the best paths to different events.
4. Arrive Early for Major Events: Events like The Flight of the Angel and costume contests draw large crowds, so arriving early is recommended to secure a good viewing spot.
5. Respect the Atmosphere: Carnival is an immersive experience, and many participants invest time and money into their costumes. Be respectful when taking photos and interacting with people in costume, as many enjoy being photographed but appreciate courtesy.

A Brief History of the Venetian Carnival

The origins of Carnival in Venice date back to the 12th century, when Venetians held pre-Lenten celebrations filled with music, dancing, and feasts. By the 18th century, Venetian Carnival had become renowned across Europe for its elaborate masks, opulent costumes, and libertine spirit. During this time, Carnival allowed people to assume new identities, offering a unique social freedom and encouraging revelry among all classes. However, Carnival declined in the 18th century and was banned in 1797 by Napoleon. It wasn’t until 1979 that Venice revived the Carnival, restoring it as an annual cultural celebration.

Today, the Venetian Carnival is a grand public event that celebrates both Venetian tradition and artistic expression, attracting visitors from around the globe.

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Traditional Masks and Costumes

Masks and costumes are the heart of the Venetian Carnival, rooted in traditions that allowed people to step outside social boundaries and adopt mysterious identities. Here are a few of the most iconic Carnival masks and costumes:

1. Bauta: The Bauta mask covers the entire face with a square jawline and is often paired with a black cloak and tricorn hat. Historically, it was worn by Venetians year-round to maintain anonymity and freedom.
2. Colombina: This half-mask covers the upper half of the face and is often adorned with jewels and feathers. It is commonly worn by women, adding an elegant and playful touch to Carnival attire.
3. Medico della Peste (Plague Doctor): The Plague Doctor mask, with its long beak and circular eye openings, originated during the plague as a way to protect doctors. Today, it has become a popular and eerie symbol at Carnival.
4. Moretta: The Moretta mask is a small, oval-shaped mask held in place by a button held between the teeth, rendering the wearer mute. Traditionally worn by Venetian women, it symbolizes mystery and secrecy.
5. Arlecchino and Pulcinella: Characters from Commedia dell'Arte, Arlecchino (Harlequin) and Pulcinella wear colourful costumes and masks representing comedic, mischievous characters. These traditional figures add a playful energy to Carnival.

Costumes are typically elaborate and historically inspired, featuring rich fabrics like velvet, silk, lace, and brocade. Many costumes are designed to resemble aristocratic attire from Venice’s Renaissance and Baroque periods, often embellished with accessories like hats, fans, and ornate jewellery.

Exploring Venice Beyond the Carnival

While Carnival events are the highlight, Venice offers many other attractions that add to the magic of your visit:

• St. Mark’s Basilica: This iconic landmark, with its Byzantine mosaics and intricate details, is a must-see. During Carnival, the Basilica becomes an integral part of the celebrations with events and parades passing through St. Mark’s Square.
• Doge’s Palace: Located next to St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace is a historic gem that was once Venice’s centre of political power. Take a tour to explore its grand halls, art, and the famous Bridge of Sighs.
• Rialto Bridge and Market: The Rialto Bridge offers scenic views of the Grand Canal, and the nearby Rialto Market is an ideal spot to experience Venice’s culinary offerings. It’s a great place to taste Venetian specialities and shop for fresh produce.
• Ca’ Rezzonico: This 18th-century palace-turned-museum provides insight into Venetian high society. Its frescoes, sculptures, and Baroque decor make it an essential stop for art lovers.
• Peggy Guggenheim Collection: Located along the Grand Canal, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection houses modern art from celebrated artists like Picasso, Dalí, and Pollock. The museum offers a break from the festivities with serene views and a focus on contemporary art.

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Why Experience the Venetian Carnival?

The Venetian Carnival is more than just a festival; it’s a vibrant expression of Venetian history, culture, and creativity. Whether you're drawn to the elaborate costumes, the mesmerizing masks, or the joyful street performances, Carnival offers an immersive experience that transports visitors to another time. The festival’s blend of tradition, art, and celebration brings Venice to life, making it one of the world’s most captivating events.

With veniceXplorer’s interactive map, navigating Carnival becomes easier, allowing you to experience each unique aspect of the celebration, from hidden alleys with small performances to grand gatherings in St. Mark’s Square. Whether you’re a seasoned visitor or experiencing Venice for the first time, the Venetian Carnival provides memories and moments that resonate long after the festivities end.