Venice Carnival 2026: Olympus – The Origins of the Game
From January 31 to February 17, 2026, Venice will once again dress in wonder for the return of its world-renowned Carnival. This year’s edition celebrates the Olympic spirit with a powerful and evocative theme:
“Olympus – The Origins of the Game”.
It’s a journey through mythology, art, sport, and performance, inspired by the harmony of body and mind — and by historical Venice, where Carnival was once a grand stage for collective games, acrobatics, duels, and parades.
Saturday, January 31, 2026
The opening day of the Carnival offers a rich and vibrant program across the city’s squares, theaters, and canals:
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Guided tours of the Scuola Grande di San Rocco
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Ice skating rinks at San Polo (Venice), Piazza Ferretto (Mestre), and Marghera
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Mask contests and parades for children and adults in Piazza San Marco and Piazza Ferretto
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Traditional mask-making workshops at Ca’ Macana and La Corte dei Miracoli
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Exhibitions and cultural events in Mestre and Venice exploring the link between sport, art, and local history
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Carnevale del Gusto, a gastronomic journey through Venice’s historic taverns and food stalls
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Theater, music, and street shows for all ages
Venice Carnival Street Show
Time: all day
Location: throughout the streets and squares of Venice and Mestre
Live performances, acrobats, musicians, and masked characters turn the city into a magnificent open-air stage.
Grand Carnival Ball with Bridgerton
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Piazza San Marco, Venice
Step into an elegant 19th-century fantasy with refined costumes, salon music, and dancing inspired by the famous series — all in the heart of Venice.
Sunday, February 1, 2026
The celebrations continue on Sunday with a full day of events for all ages:
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Ice skating rinks open across Venice, Mestre, and Marghera
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Mask-making workshops for children and adults
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Exhibitions dedicated to ephemeral art and sport in Venetian history
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Theater, music, and urban performances across the city
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Parades and carnival floats in Mestre and surrounding districts
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A rich food and wine itinerary across Venice
Venice Carnival Street Show
Time: all day
Location: throughout Venice and Mestre
Venetian Festival – Carnival Water Parade
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Venice (main canals)
One of the Carnival’s most symbolic events: a festive boat parade sails through the Grand Canal, blending tradition, music, and magic on the water.
For the full program:
https://carnevale.venezia.it/en/full-program/
Experience the magic of the Venice Carnival!
