Venice Carnival 2026 Guide: Dates, History, Tickets, Costumes & Events

Carnival in Venice is a celebration that energises and transforms the city of Venice into a living stage of art and music once in a year. The carnival is renowned for its mesmerising spectacle of elegant masks, lavish costumes and centuries-old traditions. The event involves wearing 17th-century Venetian dresses along with elaborate masks that seem to be a living piece of art. The festival welcomes global tourists to enjoy its timeless fusion of cultural heritage, theatrical performances and visual splendour.

History of the Venice Carnival

The Venice Carnival Night dates back to 1162. This iconic festival was celebrated to mark the Venice Republic’s victory over Aquileia, with people gathering in the St Mark’s Square. 

The festival was officially recognised in 1296 and allowed citizens of all social classes to come together. However, this tradition was banned in 1797 by King Francis II. While the festival has ancient roots, the modern Carnival we experience today was officially revived in 1979 by the Italian government to celebrate and preserve Venetian culture

Venice Carnival Dates & Theme for 2026

Carnevale di Venezia

The celebration is a powerful symbol of the cultural legacy and history of Venice. Also known as the Carnevale di Venezia, The festival officially kicks off on Saturday, January 31, 2026. The event’s theme this year is “Olympus: At the Origins of the Game” (Olympus: Alle origini del gioco). This theme bridges the ancient Olympic spirit with Venice’s historical tradition of public games, human pyramids, and acrobatic competitions

The pre-celebration period starts several days early with street shows and boat parades, but without costumes and mask displays.

Read more: Italy Travel Guide

Event Highlights

The Quiet Week (Jan 31–Feb 6)

• January 31 (Opening): Il Richiamo di Olympia – Arsenale Water Show, the Bridgerton-themed Grand Ball, Festa Veneziana sull’acqua – floating parade on the Cannaregio Canal at night.

The Spectacle Week (Feb 7–17)

• February 7: Festa delle Marie – The procession of the 12 Maries begins the “core” week.
• February 8: Volo dell’Angelo (Flight of the Angel) – The most famous event at St. Mark’s Square.
• February 12 (Fat Thursday): Historic “Bull Run” (theatrical version) in St. Mark’s Square.
• February 15: The Grand Final of the Most Beautiful Mask contest.
• February 17 (Shrove Tuesday): Volo del Leone (Flight of the Lion) – The official closing ceremony.

Note: The most famous event, “The Flight of the Angel” is reportedly cancelled for 2026 due to safety concerns.

Best Day to Attend Venice Carnival 

The Carnival of Venice in Italy features a series of activities that include costume shows, parades and parties organised throughout the city. 

The best day to attend this annual celebration is on Shrove Tuesday (Martedi Grasso) on February 17. This day is characterised by the most colourful festive events, costume parades in St. Mark’s Square and theatrical performances.

Venice Carnival Tickets, Entry Fees & Prices

The carnival features free public access to street parades, performances and events. Tickets are required only for premium events such as masquerade balls, dinner shows and private parties. 

These exclusive events cost between €300 to €5,000+ (Rs. 32,000 to 5,35,000) per person, depending on the event and its exclusivity. If you wish to rent a costume, expect an additional cost ranging from €400 to €800 (Rs. 42,800 to 85,600), depending on the costume.

Popular Venice Carnival Experiences & Prices

Experience	Price Range
Masquerade Ball Ticket (Individual)	€800 to €3,500+ (~₹73k – ~₹3.2 Lakh+)
Arsenal Water Show Ticket	€40 to €60 (~₹3,600 – ~₹5,500)
Costume Rental	€76.44 to €1,051.05 (~Rs. 8,400 – ~115,500)
Mask Making Workshop	€58.29 to €73.58 (~Rs. 6,405 – ~8,085)
Artisan Papier Mache Mask	Starting from €19 (~Rs. 2,100)

What to wear to the Venice Carnival?

There is no official dress to attend the Venice Carnival. Many people dress up in full Venetian costume, while others wear regular clothes. 

However, if you are attending a masquerade carnival ball, there are strict dress codes of historical costume or black tie with masks. 

Traditional Venetian Masks of the Carnival

Bauta Mask

Bauta is a simple white mask featuring a large nose, strong jaw and no mouth. This is one of the most well-known types of Venetian masks, which is traditionally worn with a black cape known as a tabarro and a tricorn hat. 

Colombina Mask

The colombina is a half-length mask that covers only the eyes and nose. The mask is named after a female character and is historically worn primarily by women. 

Medico della peste (Plague Doctor Mask)

The Plague Doctor mask is characterised by its long beak and wide, staring eyes. 

Best Things to Do in Venice During Carnival

Join a Carnival Mask-Making Workshop

The mask-making workshop presents a great introduction to your Venice Carnival journey. These workshops offer the most interactive way to experience this cultural event, thereby allowing visitors to learn more about the history of masks. 

Visit St. Mark’s Square During Carnival

Saint Mark’s Square is filled with elaborate costumes, street performers, musicians and parades.

Time: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM

Take a Gondola Ride During Venice Carnival

A peaceful gondola ride through the iconic canals in Venice offers a romantic and authentic view of Venice. 

Price: €90 (Rs. 9,600) for a 30-minute ride.

Attend an Opera Performance at Doge’s Palace 

An elegant opera or classical performance at the historic Doge’s Palace adds a refined cultural highlight to the evening.

View Carnival Crowds from St. Mark’s Basilica Terrace

Saint Mark’s Basilica is one of the most significant churches in Venice. The church is a stunning piece of architecture, with golden mosaics and tombs. A climb to the terrace offers panoramic views of Venice’s rooftops, the lagoon and the Carnival crowds.

Practical Information for the Visitors

• How to Reach Venice & Get Around: Marco Polo Airport is the main airport in Venice and is located around 12 kilometres from the city centre. 
• Accommodation Tips for Venice Carnival: It is advisable to book accommodations in advance during the Carnival of Venice in Italy.
• What to Eat During Venice Carnival: Special culinary treats include fritoe venexiane, venetian fritters and castagnole. 
• Weather in Venice During Carnival & Packing Tips: February brings cold, damp conditions with temperatures ranging from 0 to 8 degrees Celsius. Hence, it is required to pack layered clothing, waterproof coats, warm accessories and comfortable waterproof walking shoes.

Conclusion – Why You Should Experience the Carnival ?

Carnival in Venice is a timeless celebration where history and art blend harmoniously to transform the city into a living masterpiece. The carnival, with its iconic masks, elaborate costumes and centuries-old traditions, perfectly captures the spirit of Venetian culture and invites visitors to its world of mystery and exquisite beauty. Start planning your magical vacation to this carnival with Pickyourtrail’s all-customisable Italy Tour Packages. 

FAQs

When is Venice Carnival 2026 and how long does it last?

Venice Carnival 2026 kicks off on January 31 and will end on February 17.

Do I need to wear a costume to attend the Venice Carnival?

No costume is required to attend public events. However, wearing a simple mask enhances immersion and participation. Masquerade balls at historic palazzos typically enforce strict dress codes requiring period costumes or formal evening wear with masks. 

What makes Venetian masks special?

Authentic Venetian masks are handcrafted using traditional papier mache or leather techniques passed down through generations. These masks are hand-painted using natural materials. 

How much does the Venice Carnival cost?

Costs vary dramatically based on experience level. Budget travellers focusing on free public events can manage €950 to €1,430 (₹1,05,000 to ₹1,57,500) for three days, including accommodation and meals. Mid-range experiences can reach €2,860 (₹3,15,000), while luxury experiences exceed €4,770+ (₹5,25,000+). 

What is the history of the Venice Carnival?

Venice Carnival began in 1162 by celebrating a military victory. The tradition was temporarily suspended until it was revived in 1797.

Is the Venice Carnival suitable for families and children?

Many Carnival events welcome families, though crowds and late hours at some venues may challenge young children. Free daytime activities like costume parades, street performances, and exploring costumed figures throughout Venice delight all ages. 

How far in advance should I book Venice Carnival tickets?

Accommodations and Masquerade ball tickets require at least 3 to 6 months’ booking in advance.

Can I visit other Venice attractions during Carnival?

Yes, all major Venice attractions remain open during Carnival.