Palio of the Ancient Maritime Republics
The Palio is an annual boat race between the four Italian Maritime Republics or 'Republiche Marinare' (Amalfi, Genova, Pisa, Venezia), that sailed the seas in the middle ages.
Venice
Festivals and Annual Events
On the Carnival of Venice (Carnevale di Venezia), held annually, Venetians put on elaborate masks and costumes and turn the streets into a huge party. The carnival starts around two weeks before Ash Wednesday and ends on Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday. According to historical records, the first carnival was held in 1097, and for centuries the people of the city have very enthusiastically celebrated the days prior to Quaresima or Lent, the period of abstinence leading up to Palm Sunday. The word carnivale when divided in two, carne literally means meat and levare means to remove. The event was named so because during Lent eating meat is prohibited.
Showing 1–10 of 10 festivals
City guide section
Festivals and events in Venice
Showing 1–10 of 10 festivals
Plan around 10 festival seasons, public events, Ramadan/Eid periods, book fairs, art cycles, and winter food activity.
The Carnival of Venice
On the Carnival of Venice (Carnevale di Venezia), held annually, Venetians put on elaborate masks and costumes and turn the streets into a huge party.
Saint Mark's day
On the 25th of April the feast of Saint Mark the Evangelist is celebrated by Venetian men by presenting a long stemmed red rose called the 'Bòcolo' to their beloved.
Ascension Day of Festa della Sensa
This is the day on which the marriage between Venice and the sea is celebrated. Back in history the Doge would sail out on his ship named "Bucintoro" and throw into the sea a ring of gold.
Vogalonga
The Vogalonga is a rowing marathon all around Venice and the Lagoon. Each year the number of participants, especially from other countries increases. Sometimes the number of competing boats goes up to 1500.
Redentore
One of the most spectacular Venetian festivals is the Festa del Redentore because of the fireworks display and the hundreds of illuminated boats, decorated with boughs and coloured balloons, that congregate in
The Venice International Film Festival
The oldest and one of the most respected film festivals in the world is the Venice International Film Festival. It was founded by Count Giuseppe Volpi di Misurata in 1932.
Regata Storica
Yet another festival celebrated on water in this city of canals, is the Regata Storica. It takes place on the waters of the Grand Canal on the first Sunday in September.
Maratona
It starts at Villa Pisani on the mainland and ends along the Zattere for a finish at the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute on the tip of Dorsoduro.
Madonna della Salute
Venice had been shaken by a terrible plague for two years from 1630-31. To remember its removal the beautiful and grand domed church of Salute was constructed.
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More places in Venice
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More restaurants in Venice
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More hotels in Venice
Keep exploring Venice and add more stops to your plan.
