When is Venice Carnival and how long does it last?

Venice Carnival usually runs for about two weeks leading up to Shrove Tuesday (Mardi Gras), which is the day before Ash Wednesday. The exact dates change every year because they follow the Christian liturgical calendar. For example, if Shrove Tuesday falls on February 17, Carnival events typically take place from around February 7–17, with the busiest days on the final two weekends. The city publishes the official program several months in advance, but you can safely plan by anchoring your trip around the Shrove Tuesday date and arriving at least a few days before it.