Venice Carnival celebrates 300 years of Giacomo Casanova, presented the 2025 edition

On the 300th anniversary of its birth, Venice Carnival returns to enchant the world from Feb. 14 to March 4, 2025, with a special edition, titled “Il tempo di Casanova”, dedicated to the timeless Venetian figure. Giacomo Casanova, born in 1725, is one of the most iconic and fascinating figures in Venetian history. He is famous for his adventurous life, but also for his free spirit, genoius and love of art and beauty. Casanova will be the protagonist of the highlight of Venice Carnival program, which this year opens right on Valentine’s Day, in an evocative intertwining of love and the timeless magic of Venice.

The 2025 edition of Venice Carnival was presented this morning at Ca’ Farsetti by the Mayor of Venice, Luigi Brugnaro, the councilor delegated to the Protection of Traditions, Giovanni Giusto, artistic director Massimo Checchetto, and Fabrizio D’Oria, chief operating officer of Vela spa.

“On this special anniversary, Venice invites the whole world to discover the cultural heritage of Casanova, a symbol of an era. We celebrate Casanova, a man who embodies the charm, freedom and passion that characterize the soul of La Serenissima – commented Mayor Brugnaro – As with Marco Polo, the Carnival wants to pay its own tribute to Casanova, a man who has spanned the centuries taking on the contours sometimes of myth and sometimes of legend. Casanova is still an inspiration because of his adventurous life and his ability to represent the spirit of 18th-century Venice. This edition will be a journey through his era, his places and the values that made him immortal. Fall in love, dreamers or simply fascinated by the Carnival of Venice. Three hundred years of magic, history and rollicking adventures await you. I thank all those who are working for the realization of this event that will bring the festivities and celebrations throughout the city, from the islands to the mainland with events designed for all ages.”

“Venice is a city that lives and breathes through its traditions, which are both a local heritage and a universal asset. A symbol of identity that is recognized far beyond the confines of the lagoon – added Councilman Giusto – Events such as Venice Carnival, Festa del Redentore and the Historical Regatta are not only celebrations: they represent moments of community unity and cultural continuity. These are to be handed down to our future generations to keep the magic of this eternal city alive. This is why Venice Carnival opens on the water, in the most popular way that our tradition dictates, aboard our historic and decorated rowboats. As always, leading the way will be the “Pantegana.”

“Venice Carnival is ready with a program full of events, performances and celebrations that will revive the atmosphere of the 18th century and explore the creativity and passion embodied by Casanova, a symbol of 18th century Venice and its refined and always daring culture – explained artistic director Checchetto – starting with ’Histoire de ma vie’ the autobiographical memoir written in French, in which he narrates, among other things, his escape from the Piombi prison, “Casanova’s Time” aims to be a Carnival for all hearts, but also an invitation to celebrate art, culture and the pleasure of living to give visitors an unforgettable experience.”

On the other hand, Fabrizio D’Oria, chief operating officer of Vela spa, emphasized that “Vela has the task of coordinating the various activities throughout the territory through the involvement of the rich associative network and the promotion of a program schedule that is widespread in space and varied in offerings. Each edition sees an increasingly attentive audience to discover the novelties and fully experience the Venetian Carnival.”