In 2025, the Venice Carnival took place from February 15 to March 4. The origins of this festival date back to 1094. This centuries-old tradition was revived in its current form in 1979.
In German-speaking countries, Carnival is often celebrated with copious amounts of alcohol, sometimes loud singing, and large parades. In Venice, however, the festival is quite different. This year's parade on the Grand Canal took place on February 16. It always begins at 11:00 a.m. at Punta della Dogana and continues along the Grand Canal to Campo Erbaria.
At the head of this water parade sits the famous papier-mâché figure "Pantegana." This Venetian word means rat. Near the Rialto Bridge, the giant rat explodes, releasing numerous balloons and confetti into the air.
Many magnificent and elaborately designed masks are a typical feature of the Carnival of Venice.
The 2026 Carnival will begin on February 7 and end on February 17.
