Venice carnival first originated in the 11th century, and is celebrated 40 days before Easter. The annual Christian celebration typically occurs before the onset of Lent and celebrations last for about two weeks long. Venice Carnival always finishes on Shrove Tuesday, which is the day before Ash Wednesday.
The name of the carnival is said to derive from the words carne and vale – ‘farewell to meat’. This aptly explains the celebrations function, it is an opportunity to indulge in many things i.e. food and drink before the start of Lent. This is because Lent is seen as a time of fasting and sacrifice.
Venice Carnevale is full of public celebrations which include many entertainment forms such as parades, street parties or even masquerade balls.
This fascinating celebration does not happen often, only once a year. If you find yourself in Venice around February, why not go and enjoy the atmosphere and experience and unforgettable time! This is one of the best things to do in Venice, click here for more things to do.
Try the famous Venice Carnival food tradition – fritole. These sweet fritters can be stuffed with cream and have powder sugar on top – they are simply delicious!
Join in on the plenty of entertainment available around St. Mark’s Square and the adjacent Piazza. Go costume-spotting and try and snap a picture with the different characters as they parade the streets throughout the day.
The best place to join in on the festivities of the carnival would be Piazza San Marco. You can get to the city main square by Vaporetto lines (water buses) San Zaccaria or San Marco, lines 1, 2, 41, 42, 51, 52, N and LN.
