Get ready for some unusual, pre-Carnival fun in Venice this weekend! We've skipped the major tourist traps and found the best local, hands-on activities, from crafting your own mask to catching quirky street performances before the big crowds arrive.
Quick Picks
Street Theatre Shows
Campo Stefano
Catch spontaneous, free outdoor comedy and drama performances in San Marco/Castello.
Decorate Your Carnival Mask Workshop
Check booking link
A perfect hands-on activity to create a unique souvenir indoors.
Carnival Street Shows: Music, Circus-Theatre, Clowns
Various locations, (Various Squares)
Fun, spontaneous entertainment with clowns and music scattered across squares.
· January 31
3CARNIVAL STREET SHOWS: MUSIC, CIRCUS-THEATRE, CLOWNSFREE : The pre-Carnival street fun kicks off! Wander around and catch music, circus acts, and clowns putting on shows across different campi. Great for soaking up the atmosphere without a fixed plan.This is pure, spontaneous Venice fun! It's free, and you can stumble across amazing street performers in unexpected squares all day.
DECORATE YOUR CARNIVAL MASK WORKSHOP : Ditch the souvenir shops and actually make your own Venetian mask before the big rush. It’s a great hands-on way for the kids to get super creative!This is the ultimate participatory activity—kids get to use their creativity to make an authentic Carnival keepsake (and it’s indoors!).
STREET THEATRE SHOWSFREE : If you are near San Marco/Castello, make a stop at Campo Stefano. They have dedicated theatre performances scattered throughout the afternoon. Perfect for an unexpected burst of entertainment.It's a specific, scheduled event happening in a local campo, offering scheduled entertainment away from the main Piazza chaos.
· February 1
3CARNIVAL OF THE VENETIANS BY BOAT (FLOATING PARADE)FREE : The coolest way to see the Carnival kick-off: a parade of traditional boats on the Grand Canal! Make sure you are near the Rialto Bridge for the final 'Pantegana' (giant rat boat) explosion.Watching the traditional boat parade culminates in an actual explosion! This is uniquely Venetian and free to view from the banks.
CARNIVAL STREET THEATRE SHOWS (CONTINUATION)FREE : The street theatre is back at Campo Stefano on Sunday. These shows often have a fun, comedic edge that older kids (8-14) might appreciate more than the younger street acts.Specifically targets the slightly older range (up to 14) with comedy-focused shows, making it a great afternoon filler for pre-teens.
CARNIVAL STREET SHOWS (CONTINUATION)FREE : If you missed the street performers on Saturday, Sunday is your second chance! Keep exploring the small squares for music, clowns, and circus theatre running throughout the day.Gives families a second chance to catch the diverse, free entertainment happening spontaneously across the different sestieri.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there free, participatory events for my kids this weekend?
Yes! The 'Carnival Street Shows' on Saturday (Jan 31) and Sunday (Feb 1) are free outdoor entertainment. For a hands-on activity, the 'Decorate Your Carnival Mask Workshop' on Saturday costs €77 but involves active participation.
Where is the best place to see the Carnival boat parade?
The 'Carnival of the Venetians by Boat' is on Sunday, Feb 1st. For the grand finale—the 'Pantegana explosion'—head to the banks near the Rialto Bridge around 11:20 AM.
Which events are best for families with older kids (8-14)?
The 'Carnival Street Theatre Shows' at Campo Stefano on Sunday specifically mention an appeal for the 8-14 age range due to their comedic focus.