Expert recommendations of the top events—with tips on how to best experience these celebrations.
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Carnevale
February or March. Officially begins ten days before Lent; pre-Carnival events begin two days earlier. Revived about 30 years ago after being banned by the early 20th century fascist government; festivities now draw thousands of visitors daily; costume parades, concerts, fireworks, and expensive private costume balls. Tip: Make reservations for hotels and restaurants well in advance. www.carnevale.venezia.it
Festa della Sensa
May or early June. Maritime-focused commemoration of Ascension Day, 40 days after Easter. Not known for its religious fervor, Venice turned this Roman Catholic feast day into a ceremony demonstrating its maritime power; celebrates the city’s ceremonial marriage to the sea; costumed water parade, gondola races, and outdoor market at the church of San Nicolò del Lido.
Vogalonga
Sunday in May or June, dates vary. Originally a protest against motorboats and dying traditional culture; marathon-length rowing event now draws thousands of rowers and spectators. Tip: Watch and photograph boats on the Cannaregio canal. www.vogalonga.com
Venezia Suona
Dates vary; on a Sunday in June or July. One of the city’s newer traditions: bands play live music in squares and streets and on boats throughout the city, followed by a grand concert at St. Mark’s at night. www.veneziasuona.it
Festa del Redentore
Third Saturday in July. Palladio’s Church of the Redeemer was built on Giudecca in thanksgiving for deliverance from the plague in the late 16th century. Celebrants cross a floating bridge from Dorsoduro to Giudecca to visit the church. Redentore has become one of the most authentic Venetian holidays, with residents partying all night on boats anchored in St. Mark’s Basin and feasting outdoors. Tip: There’s an impressive late-night fireworks display, so stake out a place to sit early.
Regata Storica
First Sunday in September. Historical, costumed procession of rowed boats down the Grand Canal commemorates the welcome of Caterina Cornaro, Queen of Cyprus, after she renounced her throne in favor of Venice; followed by rowing races of local champions.
Festa della Madonna della Salute
November 21. City leaders prayed for deliverance from the plague in 1630-31, promising to build a church in the honor of the Virgin Mary. Venetians visit the Salute church on Dorsoduro on the feast day to worship and give thanks, crossing the Grand Canal using a temporary floating bridge.
