Venice Carnival 2026, running from January 31 to February 17, promises a spectacular celebration under the theme “Olympus – At the Origins of the Game”, connecting the festivities with Italy’s 2026 Winter Olympics. Visitors can enjoy water shows, parades, masked balls, contests, and cultural performances across Venice, from its iconic canals and Piazza San Marco to the colourful islands of Burano.
Arsenale Water Shows
The Arsenale Water Shows are the highlight of the evenings, featuring illuminated boats, acrobatics, music, and dance at Darsena Grande, usually starting at 9:00 PM.
| Date | Event | Highlight |
| Feb 7 | Opening Night Water Show | Grand boat parade |
| Feb 8 | Water Show + Flight of Angel | Light and dance performance |
| Feb 9–11 | Daily Water Show | Casanova-themed choreography |
| Feb 12 | Dinner + Arsenale Show | Masked gala and spectacular show |
| Feb 13 | Arsenale Water Show | Pyrotechnic finale |
| Feb 14–15 | Floats Parade + Evening Show | Daytime parade, evening spectacle |
| Feb 16 | Arsenale Water Show | Dance and acrobatics on stage |
| Feb 17 | Closing Night Water Show | Fireworks finale |
Daily Highlights
- February 7: Burano children’s parade, bands, and food stalls.
- February 8: Family Day with mask contests and puppet shows.
- February 9–11: Community games, skits, and local food tastings in Burano.
- February 12: Carnival Thursday with floats and fireworks.
- February 16: Children’s Carnival featuring games and clowns.
- February 17: Shrove Tuesday finale, including effigy burning.
Free and Ticketed Experiences
Free events include costume parades at St. Mark’s Square, street theatre in Campo Stefano, and live music across Mestre and Marghera. For a premium experience, ticketed masked balls are held in Venetian palaces, offering an intimate glimpse of traditional carnival glamour.
Why Visit Venice Carnival 2026
From vibrant water parades to artistic performances and immersive family-friendly activities, Venice Carnival 2026 blends heritage, spectacle, and modern creativity. It is a must-visit for culture enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone looking to experience one of the world’s most iconic festivals.
Summary:
Venice Carnival 2026 features water shows, parades, masked balls, and family-friendly events from January 31 to February 17. Highlights include Arsenale night shows, Burano parades, and free street performances.
