Venice Carnival 2025: A Celebration of History, Love and Magic

The Venice Carnival 2025 marks a truly special occasion, celebrating 300 years since the birth of Giacomo Casanova. Under the theme “Casanova’s Time,” this year’s edition pays tribute to the legendary Venetian icon, known for his charm, intrigue, and passion. With an exciting program of events and performances, the Carnival invites you to immerse yourself in unforgettable moments amidst Venice’s winding streets, shimmering canals, and majestic palaces.

Water Takes the Spotlight: Venetian Party and Water Parade

The first weekend of Carnival, as tradition dictates, will be all about water. On Sunday, February 16th, the much-anticipated Water Parade will return, bringing a spectacular procession of traditional boats to the Grand Canal. Organized in collaboration with the Coordinamento Associazioni Remiere di Voga alla Veneta, the parade will be led by the iconic papier-mâché Pantegana, a cherished symbol of Venice’s popular Carnival.

The 2025 Carnival of Venice will officially begin with the Venetian Water Festival. Around 11 a.m., a hundred colorful, decorated rowing boats, guided by masked rowers, will gather at Punta della Dogana before making their way along the Grand Canal, the most beautiful waterway in the world, towards Rialto.

As the procession approaches, vibrant smoke displays, balloons, and a flurry of confetti will envelop the iconic Rialto Bridge in a dazzling choreography. The celebration will culminate with a lively party at the Erbaria di Rialto, marking a spectacular start to the Carnival festivities.

The Streets Come Alive: Performances and Parades Across the City

During the Venice Carnival, the entire city becomes an open-air theater with the Carnival Street Show. Traveling performances will weave their way through squares and campi, spreading the festive spirit from the heart of Venice to Mestre, the lagoon islands, and surrounding municipalities.

Expect colorful allegorical floats parading through the Venetian territory, from the charming streets of Burano to the sunny promenades of the Lido. Each corner of this enchanting cityscape will come alive with music, laughter, and the magic of Carnival, creating unforgettable moments for locals and visitors alike.

Nights of Elegance and Extravagance: The Carnival’s Unforgettable Evenings

Step into a world of opulence and enchantment with the Carnival Official Dinner Show, a highlight of the Venetian festivities. Hosted on the evenings of February 22nd and 23rd, and from February 27th to March 4th, this grand event takes place in the sumptuous halls of Ca’ Vendramin Calergi. Guests will be transported back to the 18th century, experiencing a lavish dinner-theater celebration inspired by the elegance and allure of Casanova’s Venice. With exquisite period costumes, captivating artistic performances, and a strict mask dress code, the evening promises an atmosphere steeped in mystery and seduction.

And for those looking to dance the night away, Venice comes alive with a variety of vibrant parties throughout the city. From exclusive masquerade balls to lively gatherings in historic venues, the Carnival offers an array of unforgettable experiences for every reveler, these magical nights are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Here are some of the most dazzling parties you won’t want to miss:

Arsenale Water Show: Casanova’s Life in Dance and Light

Following the incredible success of its 2022, 2023, and 2024 editions, the Arsenale once again takes center stage with an extraordinary spectacle that will bring magic to the waters of the Darsena Grande. For thirty mesmerizing minutes, audiences will be captivated by a show that reimagines the adventures of Giacomo Casanova.

This emotional journey through Casanova’s life is designed to entertain, move, and surprise through a fusion of dance, music, and storytelling. Blending classical and modern styles, historical depth, and dreamlike imagery, the performance beautifully balances Venetian tradition with international influences.

Far from a conventional historical recount, the show unfolds as a series of evocative vignettes, each capturing the essence of Casanova. Narrated by Henriette, the one woman he loved yet could never have (or so they say), the performance offers a deeply moving and imaginative portrait of the man and his legend.

A Carnival for Everyone
The Venice Carnival 2025 invites everyone to join in its celebration of history, creativity, and the sheer joy of life. From the captivating performances of Commedia dell’Arte to vibrant international showcases in Piazza San Marco, from lively music for the youth at the Arsenale to enriching cultural events scattered across the city, there’s something to enchant every visitor.

Put on your mask, experience the Venetian dream, and be swept away by the timeless charm of Carnival!