From February 14 to March 4, 2025, Venice is set to celebrate one of the most anticipated events of the year: the Carnival. This year, the event takes on a special charm as it marks the 300th anniversary of the birth of Giacomo Casanova, the famous Venetian adventurer and writer. The chosen theme, Casanova’s Time, promises to transport citizens and visitors into the atmosphere of the 18th century, with masked balls, theatrical performances, and historical reenactments.
The 2025 Carnival pays homage to Giacomo Casanova, an emblematic figure of 18th-century Venice, known for his free spirit, cunning, and insatiable thirst for knowledge. Throughout the Carnival period, the city will offer a series of events inspired by his life, including theatrical performances, readings of his works, and themed itineraries tracing the places he frequented. From historic cafés to noble palaces, visitors can follow in Casanova’s footsteps on a journey intertwining history, culture, and legend.
The Venice Carnival 2025 program is a true open-air spectacle. Among the main events, the famous masked parades in Piazza San Marco stand out, where participants from all over the world showcase elaborate costumes and fascinating masks, creating an unparalleled atmosphere.
One of the most awaited moments is the Flight of the Angel, which marks the official opening of the Carnival: a young Venetian woman, chosen from the Marie of the previous year’s Carnival, will descend from St. Mark’s Bell Tower to the center of the square, paying homage to the crowd in a triumph of colors and music.
For those who love art and history, Teatro La Fenice will present exclusive performances inspired by 18th-century Venice, with operas and ballets that revive the atmosphere of Casanova’s time. The most curious visitors can also take part in historical reenactments in Venetian palaces, immersing themselves in scenes of daily life from the 18th century, featuring Baroque music, dances, and costume duels.
For those who love art and history, Teatro La Fenice will present exclusive performances inspired by 18th-century Venice, with operas and ballets that revive the atmosphere of Casanova’s time. The most curious visitors can also take part in historical reenactments in Venetian palaces, immersing themselves in scenes of daily life from the 18th century, featuring Baroque music, dances, and costume duels.
For those seeking an exclusive experience, the masked balls in historic palaces are unmissable: lavish parties held in the city’s most prestigious noble residences, where time seems to stand still. Il Ballo del Doge, considered the most elegant and luxurious, will attract international guests for a night of enchantment and sophistication.
Outdoor events will certainly not be lacking: parades along the Grand Canal, featuring gondolas and illuminated historic boats, will offer a unique spectacle, while markets, street performances, and concerts will fill Venice’s districts with vibrant festivities.
Masks have always been the symbol of the Venice Carnival. Among the most famous masks are the Bauta, characterized by its square shape, pronounced chin, and typical tricorn hat, which allowed wearers to eat and drink without being recognized, and the Moretta, a small dark velvet mask without a mouth, worn mainly by women to enhance mystery and allure.
For Carnival 2025, in honor of Giacomo Casanova’s anniversary, many local artisans have decided to pay tribute to this figure by creating masks inspired by the characters of his era. Notable among the new designs are those that recall the disguises Casanova used in his romantic adventures, featuring golden details, feathers, and fine fabrics that evoke the splendor of 18th-century Venice.
The word Carnival comes from the Latin carnem levare, meaning “to remove meat.” This term refers to the tradition of consuming large quantities of meat and other rich foods before the beginning of Lent, a period of fasting and penance in Christian tradition. Carnival was thus the perfect occasion for indulgence and freedom before the sobriety of Lent.
The Venice Carnival 2025 promises to be an extraordinary event, bringing together history, culture, and entertainment. Participating in this special edition dedicated to Giacomo Casanova means experiencing a unique adventure, immersing oneself in the magical atmosphere of a timeless city. An unmissable event for those who want to discover the traditions and secrets of Venice during the most festive time of the year.