There are celebrations and then there are celebrations. And then, there’s Venice Carnival, one of the most folkloric Italian events in the world.

In February, the silence of the canals is filled with the sound of drums and lace, and the anonymity of masks becomes an invitation to play. Those who visit Venice for the first time during its carnival are blown away by the theatricality of it all.

The soul of the Venice Carnival

The Carnival’s heart beats in St. Mark’s Square, but its soul is hidden in the lesser-known courtyards, where the most beautiful costumes walk without needing to be seen.

This is where you discover the true carnival nature of Venice: in the artisan workshops that create papier-mâché masks and in the historic buildings that open to the public for exclusive events.

Venetian masks are largely inspired by the Commedia dell’Arte, a popular and satirical theatrical genre that originated in the 16th century. Between Baroque opulence in lace and velvet, sumptuous French Rococo and Gothic influences with more austere and mysterious details, creating a mask to wear for this event becomes a real exercise in style.

Venice Carnival has its roots around the year 1000. The strict and hierarchical Serenissima granted this grace period of anonymity in which the rules were relaxed. Anyone could wear a mask, rich and poor, all genders, nobles and servants. The disguise wasn’t just aesthetic, but also a symbol of liberation, satire and transgression. It was a time to subvert the social order, if only for fun.

The local carnival

If you ask a local where to go in Venice during Carnival, they’ll tell you to follow your instincts. If a street seems to narrow or a gateway too quiet, that’s probably where the most surprising event is squirreled away. For example, some historic hotels, such as the Bauer or the Ca’ Sagredo, organise costume balls open to everyone, as long as you book and respect the dress code.

The most authentic Carnival experience comes when the day gives way to light fog and the boats slow down. The most evocative evening events are often the least publicised, such as puppet shows in small squares, dance performances in the halls of the old Ridotto casino at Palazzo Dandolo or secret parties that you need a password (and a dash of luck) to attend.

There’s also the simplest, but most Venetian experience of all: cicchetti snacks at the counter in a historic bacaro tavern, accompanied by a frittella (fritter) and an ombra de vin (a small glass of wine).

How to get there, without stress (or a crumpled mask)

Air Dolomiti flies you to Venezia Marco Polo airport. From the airport, you can get to the city centre by taking the Orange line of the Alilaguna water bus, which crosses the lagoon in 50 minutes and drops you off directly at Rialto or San Marco.

Before you set off, don’t forget to check the calendar of Venice Carnival events taking place from 31st January to 17th February 2026.