From Olympus to Venice.
Olympus - The origins of the game
Venice is transformed into a mythological stage where the thousand-year history of the Serenissima meets the universal spirit of sport. In this Olympic year, the 2026 Carnival celebrates “Olympus”, a fascinating journey that explores the deep roots of play and challenge. It is not just a celebration, but an ideal bridge linking the lagoon to the mountains of the Milan-Cortina Games, telling the story of a Venice that has always been an arena of competition, courage and freedom.
Immersing yourself in Carnival this year means rediscovering the harmony between body and mind, just as the ancient athletes and Venetians of centuries past did. From the spectacular “forces of Hercules” to the historic regattas, the city revives its most athletic and popular traditions, transforming every street into a space of sharing and beauty. Art is manifested through the works of Gabriel Bella, while the Venice Carnival Street Show spreads the energy of the festival from the historic centre to the islands and the mainland with its colourful parades of allegorical floats.
Get ready for an extraordinary programme that blends myth with modernity.
To find out about the programme in detail, visit carnevale.venezia.it
