What makes Venice so special? Besides the glorious hallmarks of the city such as its gondolas, canals, and architecture, something that stands out in this magical city are its very unique cultural and historical traditions. Venetians are very proud of their history, which is why every memorable date for them comes with its own celebration and customs, all of which are taken very serious. And, of course, every special event comes with its own traditional and delicious dishes.
In order to give you a better idea of the best time to experience the best festivals in Venice, here’s a list of the most important celebrations that take place every year. We guarantee that attending even one of these fun celebrations will be a memory of a lifetime!
Festivals and holidays in Venice
Venetian Carnival (February or March)
If not the most famous carnival in the world, it’s among the first in the ranking. One of the most important annual festivals in the city, Venice Carnival usually takes place during February or March and lasts for two weeks.
During the carnival festivities, Venice fills with people dressed in traditional Venetian costumes and masks, enjoying parades, music performances, art exhibitions, and indulging in delicious dishes and desserts such as frittelle (soft little balls made with dough based on flour, eggs, milk, sugar, and raisins), and galani (fried or baked sweet dough strips, made of flour, butter, sugar, and eggs).
Venice Film Festival (August – September)
The Venice Film Festival is the oldest and most prestigious in the world. Since 1932, it has become a major event for filmmakers. Each year hundreds of films are submitted to compete for awards, including the Golden Lion.
As well as showcasing some of cinema’s best new talent, the festival features established filmmakers looking to make their mark. The Venice Film Festival is an important event that celebrates the art and craft of filmmaking, and it’s a great opportunity for movie lovers to see some of the best films from around the world.
Insider’s tip: Keep reading to discover why lions are a symbol of Venice!
April 25th: Feast of Saint Mark (AKA Bòcolo Feast)
April 25th is a special day for all of Italy because it is the day they were from the Nazis. But Venetians, in particular, have other reasons to mark it with great enthusiasm.
Every year they commemorate the Feast of Saint Mark. The holiday is also known as the festa del bòcolo, or rosebud festival. No doubt you’ll see lots of flowers on the street – it’s customary for enamored couples to give each other roses!
The Feast of Saint Mark celebrates the city’s patron saint with mass in the cathedral and then a procession starting from Saint Mark’s Square. While, Bòcolo is a tradition dating back to the IX century AD in which Venetian men give a red rosebud to their love in honor of the love story between Maria Detta Vulcania, the daughter of Doge Angelo, and Tancredi, who died in a war to get Maria’s hand.
Throughout the day in Venice, different activities take place, and the people enjoy tasting traditional dishes to celebrate this special date, such as risi e bisi (a Venetian dish made with rice and peas).
Insider’s tip: f you are visiting Venice on April 25, be aware that there is usualy a special mass at Saint Mark’s Basilica. Make sure to check opening times so you can still see the basilica during your time in the city.
Festa Della Sensa (May or June)
One of the oldest and most important festivals in Venice is the Festa Della Sensa, also known as the Wedding between the Sea and Venice. This festival celebrates Venice’s maritime heritage with a procession of ships setting sail in homage to the Doge and his people since 1177. The celebration culminates with a fireworks display that lights up the night sky over the Venetian lagoon.
As part of the celebration of the Sensa festival, people usually eat lengual, a special sausage made from the pig’s tongue, seasoned with special flavors and spices, such as cinnamon and cloves.
Historical Regatta (First Sunday of September)
The day of the Regatta Storica is one of the most awaited festivals in Venice. Every year, the Grand Canal serves as a stage to witness a unique moment in which rowing boats of all colors and shapes compete in a race and show traditional Venetian rowing techniques, as well as to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city. The event also features a parade of boats and performances by traditional musicians, making it one of the most popular events at the Venice Festival.
After the euphoria at the end of the race, the Venetians usually visit the bàcari (tapas bar) to celebrate with a glass of wine, prosecco, or spritz accompanied by the typical cichetti (small piece of bread with different types of toppings).
Ferragosto (August 15th)
Ferragosto is the meaning of vacations in Italy. The specific holiday originates from Emperor Augustus, who ordered a day of rest during the summer for the agricultural sector.
Today, most people go to the beach or travel with family and friends. Venice, in particular, is one of those destinations that keep alive during this holiday different activities such as musical concerts, boat races, and festivals. If you’re traveling anywhere in Italy during ferragosto, make sure to plan accordingly – many places may be closed!
In Venice, Ferragosto is celebrated with traditional dishes such as baccalà alla Veneta (codfish) and sarde in saor (sardines).
La Salute (November 21st)
Salute Day in Venice is a celebration of gratitude to the Madonna Della Salute for her intervention in the terrible plague that hit the city in 1630. This feast is commemorated with a procession that goes to the altar of the Santa Maria Della Salute church. This holiday is a time for the Venetians to come together and celebrate their city with music and dancing. It’s also a great opportunity for visitors to take part in this unique tradition and experience the culture of Venice first-hand.
The typical dish to eat on the day of La Salute is the castradina in brodo, a food based on the smoked leg of lamb, cabbage leaves, onions, and wine.
Christmas (December 25th)
The experience of celebrating Christmas in Venice is unforgettable. This city offers romantic canals, unique city lights, stunning architecture, and a festive atmosphere that make it a perfect vacation destination for the holidays. There are many ways to make your vacation in Venice memorable, from enjoying traditional dishes to exploring the city’s many attractions.
To celebrate Christmas like a real Venetian, don’t forget to include these dishes in your menu. Starters: baccalà mantecato and sarde in saor; first courses: riso coe coppe (rice with clams) and bigoli; main courses: roast beef, liver in Venetian style, and polenta with fish.
Although it might be a little difficult to plan your Venice adventure around all of these festivals, if you get to see one, consider yourself lucky! And while you’re partying along in the canals of Venice, why don’t you check out an exclusive tour where you can take in St. Mark’s Basilica after closing time or spend an evening exploring authentic Venetian food and wine? Our small-group tours (many with exclusive access) will help you see Venice from different perspectives.