Behind the Mask: Guide to the Mystical Venice Carnival 2025

The roots of the Venice Carnival stretch back to the 13th century, when Venetians began donning masks to blur social distinctions. Allowing for a carefree celebration of equality and joy. By the 18th century, the carnival had reached it's peak, with masked balls, elaborate costumes and an air of mystery enveloping the city. This tradition was a favorite of the legendary Casanova himself, whose adventurous spirit is captured in this year’s theme.

Must-see Carnival events for 2025

• Grand Opening “Floating Parade”: The Grand Canal transforms into a shimmering stage for the Floating Parade! Costumed participants glide across the water in ornately decorated gondolas. Surrounded by the rhythm of music, bursts of vibrant color and the enticing aroma of Venetian street food.

• Carnival street shows: Venice’s squares come alive with music, circus acts and acrobatic performances.

• Street theater shows: Presentations of drama and comedy unfold in public squares, bringing art and culture to life.

• Festa delle Marie: Celebrates a historic custom where the Doge granted dowries to beautiful Venetian maidens. Twelve women embodying Venetian beauty, dressed in beautiful historical costumes, competed for the title Maria del Carnevale, crowned on the last day of Carnival.

• Flight of the Angel: Kicking off the Carnival on the first Sunday, a beautiful maiden gracefully descends from St. Mark’s Bell Tower to St. Mark’s Square in a spectacle of awe.

• Grand masquerade and ball: This exclusive event features extravagant costumes, intricate masks, exquisite cuisine, live music and captivating performances in historic Venetian palaces.

• Best mask contest: A daily celebration of creativity and artistry, held in St. Mark’s Square. Participants showcase their most intricate and imaginative masks, competing for the title of the best mask of the day.

• Costume contests and shows: Showcasing intricate designs and bold attire, these contests bring the Carnival spirit to life with a dazzling display of fashion and fantasy.

• Burano Island Carnival: Visit Venice’s neighboring island where vibrant celebrations, colorful streets and traditional festivities offer a unique and intimate Carnival experience.

• Flight of the Eagle: Held on the last Sunday of Carnival, this event mirrors the Flight of the Angel but celebrates sports and their values, with a renowned athlete taking on the role of the Eagle.

• Crowning Marie del Carnevale: As twelve Venetian maidens take center stage, one will be crowned Maria of the Carnival and awarded the honor of performing the Flight of the Angel at the next Carnival.

• Flight of the Lion: Marks the end of the Carnival and pays homage to the city's symbol, the Lion of St. Mark. The event involves raising a large red silk banner with a golden image of the lion from the center of St. Mark's Square to the bell tower.

More Activities to Explore:

• Carnival and Casanova history tour of Venice

• Dress-up experience

• Mask-making workshop

• Carnival pub crawl

• Opera and Vivaldi concerts

• Dinner cruise on a galleon

Masquerades and balls are the highlight of Carnival, blending history, glamor and breathtaking performances. These exclusive events are wildly popular and costly, but their once-in-a-lifetime allure makes them worth the splurge. Let’s take a look at the top balls of 2025 that are sure to dazzle and delight!

• Gala evening “The Doge’s Ball”: At Scuola Grande della Misericordia is a dazzling fusion of Renaissance opulence and Cirque du Soleil-style performances. Guests revel in an immersive experience, adorned in exquisite designer costumes, embodying the ultimate in Venetian luxury.

• Gala evening “Venetian Reflections”: Hosted in the prestigious Baroque Palazzo Labia. This magical gala features an elegant aperitif, a gourmet dinner and captivating performances by artists and acrobats. The evening concludes with a DJ set, and an open bar, creating an unforgettable celebration.

• Venice Carnival Official Dinner Show: Set in a stunning 15th-century Ca’ Vendramin Calergi Palace on the Grand Canal. This opulent event offers exquisite cuisine, cultural performances, live music and the company of an elite crowd.

• Masquerade Party “Carnival in Love”: Held in the magnificent Palazzo Ca' Zen ai Frari. This enchanting soirée features a lavish dinner, alluring acts inspired by the 18th century and a live DJ to conclude the evening. This year’s theme is Gardens of Venice.

• Masquerade Party “The Ball of Dreams”: Also held at Palazzo Ca' Zen ai Frari, offers an experience similar to other masquerade parties. The name has been changed from the original, Courtesan Ball, but the essence remains the same. Celebrating women’s freedom, it highlights the lives of courtesans — refined and intelligent women who enjoyed privileges denied to many others.

• Carnival Parties “The Legend of Casanova” and “Don Giovanni”: At Hotel Saturnia, offer more understated celebrations with aperitifs, dinners, performances and dancing. Unlike other events, costumes are not required, making it a relaxed yet festive option.

Personal tip: Check attire requirements in advance — many galas require period costumes or formal evening wear. Some events offer rentals, but you’ll likely need to visit an atelier before, so plan to arrive early.