Venetian festivals and events
The festivals Venetians really celebrate, month by month, and how to join in respectfully.
February (sometimes early March)
Carnival
Two weeks of masks, costumes and parties before Lent.
Like a Venetian
Ask before taking close-up photos of masked people, and don't block the calli and bridges around San Marco.
25 April
Saint Mark's Day (el bòcolo)
The day of Venice's patron saint: men give a red rosebud, el bòcolo, to the women they love.
Like a Venetian
If you see lots of Venetians carrying a red rose, now you know why.
The Sunday after Ascension Day (May or June)
Festa della Sensa
The "marriage of the sea": a ring is thrown into the water to renew the bond between Venice and the sea.
Like a Venetian
The ceremony takes place towards the Lido, at San Nicolò: arrive early and keep clear of the boats.
Pentecost Sunday (May or June)
Vogalonga
Thousands of rowing boats cover about 30 km of the lagoon: a celebration of rowing, not a race.
Like a Venetian
On that day the vaporetti may change route: check the timetable and cheer the rowers from the banks.
Third weekend of July
Festa del Redentore
It marks the end of the 1577 plague: a bridge of boats leads to the Redentore church, and on Saturday night there are fireworks.
Like a Venetian
Venetians have dinner on boats or along the banks while waiting for the fireworks: bring your own food, respect places already taken and take your rubbish with you.
First Sunday of September
Regata Storica
A parade of historic boats with crews in costume sails along the Grand Canal, then the best rowers race.
Like a Venetian
Watch the parade from the banks of the Grand Canal without leaning out or blocking the waterfront paths.
11 November
Saint Martin's Day
Children roam the calli banging pots and singing, and shops hand out sweets.
Like a Venetian
Try the San Martino sweet: a shortbread knight on horseback you'll find in every pastry shop.
21 November
Festa della Madonna della Salute
A votive bridge crosses the Grand Canal to the Salute basilica, where Venetians light a candle.
Like a Venetian
It is a deeply felt religious festival: be respectful. The traditional dish is castradina.
Many dates change every year: always check the official programme.