The Venice Carnival is now world famous - it always takes place during the ten days leading up to Shrove Tuesday. Carnival, being a pre-Lent festival, means ‘farewell to meat’ and is celebrated throughout Italy.

It was first held in Venice in the 11th Century and consisted of over two months of revelry, until it fell into decline during the 18th Century.

It was revived in 1979 with great success and nowadays it is a great excuse to don a mask and costume, parade around the city, and enjoy the live music in the main squares of the city.

History of Carnival in Venice

The history of Carnival in Venice goes back roughly 800 years. It is the most famous and most magnificent carnival in Europe and also one of the most fascinating ones in the world.

The Italian lagoon city with its unique charm, its canals, alleyways and squares embodies the atmosphere of times long ago.

In its time of prosperity Venice was the European centre of amusement, festivity and love - and this awareness of life comes alive once a year for a period of about ten days filled with glamour and intrigue.

Special Attractions

There are several events organized and there is a wonderful open-air festival where everyone can join in. Fantastic costumes are displayed in St Mark’s Square and Venice is the perfect, spectacular back-drop for amazing photographs.

The attraction of Venice seems to be mysteriously manfolding during Carnival time. The “masks” worn throughout Carnival stand for magic moments, romantic hopes and secret longings. The symbolism links back to the myths and fairytales of the people.

Even if you don’t wish to put on a costume, face-painting is offered in the various streets, various hats are on sale, and of course you have to taste the ‘frittelle’ - a type of doughnut, filled with cream or zabbaione (a Venetian specialty).

These are only made over the Carnival period!!!! During Carnival, the streets of Venice are filled with festivities and a light-hearted atmosphere of revelry.

Opening dates of Carnival

The famous Venice Carnival celebrating the end of winter each year will take place next year Between February 13 and 24 2009

For Bookings

We recommend you book your package at least 2 months before the date of carnival. Please check out our special offers for Venice carnival at website www.calculatemytrip.com.

Calculate My Trip also provide you Passes of the Venice carnival, Holiday packages, Air tickets, Hotel Bookings, etc. at cheapest cost.

Come and enjoy the Venice carnival!