Unmissable events in Venice

What comes to mind when you thing about events in Venice? The Festa del Redentore, the Film Festival and, of course, the Venice Carnival famous for its traditional masks. In fact, every month, Venice has a large number of festivals and events that bring life and colour to the city.

In this article, we recommend the main events that should not be missed during the spring and autumn season, the best time to visit the city!

25 April: the Feast of San Marco (St Mark)

April 25 is an important day for Venice. On this day, it commemorates the liberation of Italy from Nazi-fascism, and the festival dedicated to St Mark, the city's patron saint.There is a procession from the Basilica of San Marco, where the relics of the saint are preserved.

The day is also dedicated to the "Festa del Bòcolo (Rosebud festival)", during which lovers offer their sweetheart a red rosebud as a symbol of their love.

May: Festa della Sensa (Feast of the Ascension)

During the Republic, Venetians used to celebrate the Festa della Sensa to celebrate the Ascension of Christ (40 days after Easter day, usually in May). On this day, the Doge of Venice, aboard a large boat called Bucintoro, threw a gold ring into the sea off the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, symbolizing the renewal of the marriage vows between the city and the sea.

The wedding rite is still celebrated today with a procession of boats, musical performances, and rowing competitions.

June: Art Night

Art Night, organised by the Ca' Foscari University of Venice, is a more recent event. The first one was held in 2011 and since then it has been held every year on the Saturday closest to the summer solstice. In the evening, the city's museums and galleries are free of charge to the public and there are hundreds of free shows in various locations around the city, creating a magical atmosphere for everyone visiting the city.

September: Regata Storica (Historical Regatta)

The Regata Storica is one of the most important events in Venetian cultural life. This popular festival takes place on the first Sunday in September along the Grand Canal, with parades and competitions featuring different types of historic boats.

It is a unique and evocative event that is an unforgettable experience for those who attend, with rowers in period costume, exciting races, and many other side events including concerts, exhibitions, and other events.

Are you looking for even more special events?

Other noteworthy events are:

• Su e Zo per i Ponti (walking event - April)
• Il Vogalonga (rowing event - May)
• La Biennale di Venezia (Venice Biennale, usually held sometime between late May to November)
• The Venice Glass Week (Festival - September)
• Venice Design Week (October)
• In addition to all these events, every corner of Venice and the surrounding towns and villages is packed with things to see and visit. Discover what the Venetian region has to offer!