Venice Carnival 2026 Programme Schedule: Official Dates, Daily Events, and Practical Planning Guide
The Venice Carnival 2026 will take place from Saturday 31 January to Tuesday 17 February 2026, ending on Shrove Tuesday. These dates follow the official calendar used by the Municipality of Venice and the traditional liturgical cycle that determines Carnival each year.
This guide brings together the full programme structure, confirmed calendar logic, and real visitor experience to help you plan day by day. It is written to be practical, not promotional, and reflects how Carnival actually works on the ground.
What the Venice Carnival Is and How the Programme Works
The Venice Carnival, or Carnevale di Venezia, is a public cultural festival with roots in the Venetian Republic. Masks historically allowed anonymity, temporarily removing social divisions.
Today, the programme combines official events organized by the city with informal celebrations that take place across squares, canals, and neighborhoods.
There is no single continuous show. Instead, Carnival follows a layered structure.
- Major events scheduled on weekends
- Smaller recurring events during weekdays
- Independent maskers and photographers throughout the city
Official Venice Carnival 2026 Dates at a Glance
- Opening day: Saturday 31 January 2026
- Main celebration period: 7–16 February 2026
- Final day: Tuesday 17 February 2026 (Martedì Grasso)
The most crowded and event-rich days are typically the two weekends and Shrove Tuesday.
Venice Carnival 2026 Programme: Day-by-Day Overview
Saturday 31 January 2026 – Opening Day
The Carnival officially opens with public celebrations and the first costumed appearances.
- Opening ceremonies in central areas
- First mask gatherings in St Mark’s Square
- Evening performances and music events
Sunday 1 February 2026 – Festa Veneziana sull’Acqua
The traditional water parade takes place along the Cannaregio canal.
- Decorated boats and floating performances
- Music and lighting installations
- Strong local attendance
Weekdays: 2–6 February 2026
These days are calmer and often preferred by visitors who want to explore without heavy crowds.
- Mask workshops and artisan demonstrations
- Street performers in neighborhood squares
- Photo sessions around historic locations
Make and decorate a traditional Venetian mask
Saturday 7 February 2026 – First Grand Weekend
The first major weekend marks a noticeable increase in attendance.
- Official stage shows in St Mark’s Square
- Best Mask competitions begin
- Private Carnival balls in the evening
Sunday 8 February 2026 – Flight of the Angel
One of the most recognizable events of the Carnival.
- A performer descends from the bell tower in St Mark’s Square
- Large crowds from early morning
- Broadcast coverage and media presence
Weekdays: 9–13 February 2026
This is a balanced period combining atmosphere and accessibility.
- Ongoing mask contests
- School and family-friendly performances
- High-quality street photography opportunities
Join a hands-on Venetian mask workshop
Saturday 14 February 2026 – Second Grand Weekend
The busiest Saturday of the Carnival.
- Final rounds of the Best Mask competition
- Large-scale performances
- Maximum crowd density in St Mark’s area
Sunday 15 February 2026
The last full Sunday features a mix of celebration and anticipation.
- Closing-themed shows
- Informal gatherings across the city
- Many visitors in full costume
Monday 16 February 2026
A transitional day with fewer scheduled performances.
- Farewell mask appearances
- Lower crowds compared to the weekend
- Good day for workshops and museums
Tuesday 17 February 2026 – Shrove Tuesday
The official closing day of Venice Carnival.
- Final parades and performances
- Symbolic end of Carnival traditions
- Evening wind-down across the city
Create a Carnival mask as a lasting souvenir
Practical Experience: Visitor Review
“We visited during the weekday between the two weekends. The atmosphere was still authentic, but movement was easier. Making a mask gave us context and something tangible beyond photos.” — Marco R., Carnival visitor
Planning Tips from On-the-Ground Experience
- Arrive before 9:00 for major events
- Expect vaporetto delays during weekends
- Comfortable shoes matter more than elaborate costumes
- Weekdays offer the best balance of access and atmosphere
FAQs – Venice Carnival 2026 Programme Schedule
Are the Venice Carnival 2026 dates confirmed?
Yes. The dates follow the official liturgical calendar and municipal planning cycle.
Is there a printed daily timetable?
No single printed timetable exists. Events are spread across locations.
Do I need tickets for public events?
No. Public square events are free to attend.
When is the best day for photos?
Weekday mornings offer the best light and space.
Is Carnival suitable for children?
Yes. Daytime events and workshops are family-friendly.
Where are most events held?
St Mark’s Square, Cannaregio, and major historic campi.
Are masks mandatory?
No. Many visitors attend without any costume.
Does weather affect the programme?
Outdoor events may be adjusted in heavy rain.
Can I attend Carnival for one day?
Yes, though overnight stays allow fuller participation.
When should accommodation be booked?
Ideally three to six months in advance.
Closing Notes
The Venice Carnival 2026 programme is best understood as a framework rather than a fixed script. Knowing the dates and rhythm allows you to plan realistically and engage with the festival on your own terms.
Reserve a Venice Carnival mask-making experience before arrival