Get ready for a journey like no other! The Venice Carnival 2024 is around the corner, and this year’s theme, “Ad Oriente: The Amazing Journey of Marco Polo,” pays tribute to one of history’s greatest explorers. In honor of the 700th anniversary of Marco Polo’s passing on January 8, 1324, Venice welcomes him back as a central figure in this year’s carnival extravaganza.
From January 27 to February 13, the Venice Carnival transforms the city into a captivating map, tracing the incredible odyssey of Marco Polo. This edition revolves around the themes of travel, discovery, and encounters with worlds both imagined and real. It delves into the essence of a journey—not just across physical landscapes but within oneself, exploring personal transformation through exploration and encounters with the unknown.
Embark on a fantastical voyage of the imagination, casting our gaze “to the East” in the footsteps of Marco Polo’s epic expedition. This educational and cultural journey reimagines his historic quest for knowledge, bringing to life the boundaries crossed and cultures encountered that once shaped Venice and the world as it was known then.
The Venice Carnival 2024 promises a citywide celebration filled with enchanting shows, music, and art across streets, squares, and fields. The Carnival Street Show will feature world-class artists in music, circus-theatre, and clowning, captivating audiences with their mastery.
Tradition meets innovation with events like the Mask Contest and the selection of the 12 Marys, alongside the opulent Carnival Dinner Show at Ca’ Vendramin Calergi, a sumptuous affair titled “At the Court of the Great Khan,” curated by stylist Antonia Sautter.
The Arsenale takes center stage with the spectacular “Terra incognita” show, enchanting audiences with its magic on the waters of Darsena Grande, following Marco Polo’s footsteps.
Art and theater grace the city’s cultural spaces, intertwining with the Biennale and other entities to create a diverse program of shows celebrating the Carnival of Culture.
Under the visionary direction of Massimo Checchetto, Artistic Director and set designer of Teatro La Fenice, the Venice Carnival 2024 unfolds as a fantastical realm where the rich tapestry of civilizations encountered by Marco Polo comes alive in Carnival’s splendid inspiration. Join us for an unforgettable odyssey through time and imagination!
Website: www.carnevale.venezia.it
Location: Venice
Schedule: Jan. 27 – Feb. 13, 2024
