On the 3rd February 2024, Venice is going to host one of the most interesting and antique carnivals around the globe named “Venice Carnival''. It's a two-week program which has roots dating back to the 11th century. The main ideology behind this huge celebration holds sacred significance. During this time, both the poor and the rich are considered equal.
We understand the clutter of information available on the internet regarding this carnival. Therefore, we prepared this article which includes carnival dates, carnival themes, types of masks, and categorized activities which are going to happen during this festival.
Important Dates And Events Of The Carnival:
The Venice Carnival will be from the 3rd of February to the 13th of February. Here is the list to better understand how to plan your itinerary to Venice this year.
Dates | Days | Free Programmes | Timings |
6 February | Tuesday | Carnival Costume’s Show | 9:00 to 17:00 |
7 February | Wednesday | Carnival Costume’s Show | 9:00 to 17:00 |
8 February | Thursday | Music, circus, theater and Clowns Carnival’s Costume Show Carnival’s Costume Contest Street Theater Show Burano Island Carnival | 15:00 to 19:00 9:00 to 17:00 12:00 to 12:30 11:30 to 12:30 15:00 to 21:00 |
9 February | Friday | Music, circus, theater and Clowns Carnival’s Costume Show Carnival’s Costume Contest Street Theater Show Burano Island Carnival | 15:00 to 19:00 9:00 to 17:00 12:00 to 12:30 11:30 to 12:30 15:00 to 21:00 |
10 February | Saturday | Music, circus, theater and Clowns Carnival’s Costume Show Carnival’s Costume Contest Street Theater Show Burano Island Carnival | 15:00 to 19:00 9:00 to 17:00 12:00 to 12:30 11:30 to 12:30 15:00 to 21:00 |
11 February | Sunday | Carnival’s Costume Show Carnival’s Costume Contest Street Theater Show Burano Island Carnival | 9:00 to 17:00 12:00 to 12:30 11:30 to 12:30 15:00 to 21:00 |
12 February | Monday | Carnival’s Costume Show Carnival’s Costume Contest Street Theater Show Burano Island Carnival Presentation of the 12 MARY’24 | 9:00 to 17:00 12:00 to 12:30 11:30 to 12:30 15:00 to 21:00 15:00 to 17:00 |
13 February | Tuesday | Carnival’s Costume Show Carnival’s Costume Contest Street Theater Show Burano Island Carnival | 9:00 to 17:00 12:00 to 12:30 11:30 to 12:30 15:00 to 21:00 |
Short History About Carnival:
The Carnival has a long history dating back to the 11th century when it was the Christian Lent season (also known as the season for repentance). People had to celebrate and enjoy themselves. By then, Carnival had become more sophisticated, with dedicated masks and costumes.
The Layman of Venice loved the idea of wearing masks as it allowed them to remove all the differentiation between rich and poor. They are allowed to do the craziest things in this Carnival, which is prohibited on regular days. However, the same festival becomes the time for wealthy people to showcase their wealth through elaborate costumes and private parties.
Theme For Venice Carnival 2024:
This year, Venice Carnival is celebrating one of the fantastic travelers, “Marco Polo’s Amazing Journey,” on the 700th death anniversary of Marco Polo. Visitors are requested to come with a passion for discoveries and traveling to places they could only imagine, just like Marco Polo did his whole life.
Masks - The Identity Of Venice Carnivals:
It is not a false claim that Venetian masks are undeniably integral to the beloved status of the Venice festival worldwide. These masks are so colorful and come in different varieties. So, we sought assistance to explore how they are made. Amazingly authentic Venice masks are handmade, which includes the following process:
- Masks are made in clay molds where the mask model is the relief (positive).
- Then, the craftsman puts the mold in a wooden box. This step asks for patience.
- Then, these white masks accept color and decorations. Therefore, there are plenty of mask options to choose from.
The famous types of masks in the Venice festival are given below:
Bauta Mask:
The Bauta mask covers the entire face of the person who wore it. It is made up of a white base with a pointed nose. Typically, Venetian people wore it with a black hat. It is well-known that the renowned adventurer Casanova used to wear it to hide his identity and move freely in the city.
Moretta Mask:
The Moretta mask is worn by women only. It is a small, oval-shaped black velvet and leather mask with no eye holes. Therefore, the wearer must rely entirely on hearing and touching for navigation. High-status women wore the Moretta mask to avoid unwanted attention, as a symbol of modesty and virtue.
Medico Della Peste Mask:
This unusual and quite uncomfortable mask was worn by doctors and paramedical staff during the era of the epidemic. The mask can be described as a long, pointed beak and round eyepieces. The long beak of the mask is filled with sweet-smelling spices and herbs to purify the air and protect the wearer from the disease they are treating.
Answers To Your Most Asked Questions:
What Is The Best Day To Go To Venice Carnival?
The best two days to attend the Carnival are the starting day, which is on 3rd February, and the final weekend of the Carnival. Plan your trip to Venice on February 3 and 13 if you can bear the crowd.
Is The Venice Carnival Free?
Venice Carnival is partially accessible. For example, street shows are free for everyone to enjoy, while there are also private parties, which are pretty expensive to attend.
Is The Venice Carnival Worth It?
Yes! Venice Carnival is worth every penny of yours. From free street shows, including carnival costumes, circus theater, and acrobatics, to people armed with fancy costumes, there is much more to enjoy this idyllic and fascinating carnival season.
Is The Venice Carnival Expensive?
No doubt Venice is an expensive destination. However, many historical shows and tactics are free of cost during the Venice Carnival.
Is The Venice Carnival Crowded?
Yes, Venice is indeed densely crowded during the Carnival.
Action Time!
Venice Carnival is a one-time celebration and a must-visit place, too. The best part about the Carnival is the thought process behind mask-making, which is generous and makes sense. Finally, if you plan to attend the Venice Carnival 2024, book your costumes early for a positive experience. While choosing a costume, make sure to opt for authenticity, its fitting, and the comforts of the costume. For more information you can check the official website of Venice Carnival.