Week 1: Opening & build-up (Feb 7–13 est.)
Opening Weekend
FestivalFreeCarnival opens with the Festa Veneziana sull'Acqua — a floating parade in Cannaregio with illuminated boats and performers on the water. Saturday evening. The Flight of the Angel follows on Sunday from the Campanile.
Weekday Events
FestivalFreeMidweek is quieter — mask-making workshops, theatrical performances in smaller campi, and the city gradually filling with costumed figures. Best time for atmospheric photos without crowds.
Week 2: Main carnival (Feb 14–17 est.)
Grand Weekend
FestivalThe festival reaches full intensity — daily costume competitions in Piazza San Marco, masquerade balls every evening, and the streets packed with costumes from dawn to midnight.
Fat Tuesday / Mardi Gras (Martedì Grasso)
FestivalFreeThe final day — the Svolo del Leon (Flight of the Lion) closes carnival, followed by a massive party in San Marco. At midnight, the symbolic funeral of carnival marks the start of Lent. Emotional and unforgettable.
Ticketed events
The Ballo del Doge (€500+) at Palazzo Pisani Moretta is the most exclusive ball. Il Ballo Tiepolo at Ca' Rezzonico is more intimate. Carnival dinner shows at various venues run €100–250 with dinner and entertainment. Book at carnevale.venezia.it or through GetYourGuide.
Plan around
Opening weekend for the water parade. Final weekend for maximum intensity. Midweek for the best photos and atmosphere without overwhelming crowds.