With historical roots dating back almost a millennium, the Venice Carnival is not only a staple for local life in the city, but an event that brings in tourists and partygoers from around the world. These 10 days of festivities, typically held at the beginning of February, bring out the true colors of Venice, animating the streets and squares with music, shows, parades, and world-class parties.
The Flight of the Angel, or Il Volo dell’Angelo in Italian, is one of the public highlights of the Carnevale di Venezia. It’s the event that officially kicks off the 10 days of Carnival, one that dates back to the original Carnivals during the La Serenissima period.
Also held here in St. Mark’s Square is the Costume Parade, where anyone from around the world may enter to show off their dazzling, elegant costumes for a chance to be included in the final Parade at the end of the Carnival period.
Another opening spectacle not to be missed is the Boat Parade down the Grand Canal, where over 100 boats and 800 rowers dressed in traditional (and some not-so-traditional) costumes parade down the city’s main waterway to all to enjoy. Thousands gather to take in this spectacular scene that sets the mood for the colorful, animated events about to take place.
As the sun sets over the streets inevitably speckled with colorful confetti, many head to the Arsenale to see the annual Nighttime Parade, a half-hour show filled with spectacular lights, dazzling acrobatics, and, naturally, awe-inspiring costumes.
Aside from the variety of shows to be found around the city, Carnival-goers looking for a more exclusive experience cannot miss the chance to attend one of the glamorous Private Parties to be found in this period. To attend these private parties, tickets must be booked ahead of time, and guests must adhere to a strict dress code; most parties require a full period-correct Carnival costume, though a few will accept guests dressed in evening dress (complete with a Carnival mask, though).
To name only a few of these glamorous parties, we have to begin with Il Ballo del Doge, without a doubt the most luxurious and exclusive party to be attended during Carnival. The evening opens with a welcome show and cocktails, followed by dinner paired with prestigious wines to accompany each dish; after dinner guests are treated to the main show performed by over 100 artists; the evening continues until the early morning with the after-dinner party and night disco.
Another unmissable party is The Ball of Dreams Venice. This evening in full Carnival spirit is hosted at the Palazzo Zen in the San Polo district. Guests in attendance, all with period-correct costumes, will enjoy a dinner catered by the famous Harry’s Bar before an evening of dancing and partying until sunrise with shows and music (not to mention the open bar).
One of the more unique parties has to be Venetian Reflections, an evening filled with guaranteed entertainment hosted in the prestigious Palazzo Pisani Moretta. Guests are welcomed by cocktails, live music, and photo corners where they can immortalize the evening in their glamorous costumes. Over a multiple-course dinner interspersed with live acts, awards will be given out for various contests for best costume and mask, with prizes including a stay in one of Venice’s most spectacular hotels. The dining room is then transformed into an open ballroom to host period dances and, later, the after-hours DJ set and disco.
Be sure to check for the full schedule and program of activities and private parties in the weeks leading up to Carnival.
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