Venice Carnival 2026

Every year Venice turns into an open-air stage where history, elegance and imagination come together. The Venice Carnival is not just a celebration, but an ancient ritual deeply rooted in the traditions of the Serenissima, still capable of enchanting visitors from all over the world.

The Venice Carnival 2026 celebrates this timeless magic with the theme “Olympus – At the Origins of the Game”, a tribute to the spirit of play as a collective ritual, a challenge, an expression of creativity and a moment of connection, inspired by mythology and ancient Olympic traditions.

Born in the Middle Ages and made famous in the 18th century, the Carnival was a time when all social distinctions were suspended: behind a mask, nobles and commoners mingled freely, experiencing the city in an atmosphere of freedom and mystery that can still be felt today among Venice’s calli and campi. During Carnival, Venice comes alive with costume parades, events in St Mark’s Square, water shows, concerts and exclusive gatherings in historic palaces, turning every corner of the city into an integral part of the celebration.

Masks such as the Bauta, the Moretta and the Volto remain the most authentic symbols of the Carnival, telling stories of anonymity, elegance and centuries-old craftsmanship intertwined with this year’s theme of gods, myths and playful spirit. Experiencing the Venice Carnival means letting yourself be carried away by a timeless tradition of beauty, play and wonder.