One of the biggest events of the Venice calendar - Carnevale - usually takes place in February. Here are the festivals and events that happen each February in Venice.
As Early as February 3 - Carnevale and beginning of Lent. Carnevale is one of Venice's biggest traditions and thus one of Venice's busiest times for tourism. Travelers from all around the world crowd into Venice for Italy's most famous Carnival celebrations, which include masquerade balls, parades on both land and in the canals, food fairs, children's carnivals and numerous other activities. Events start several weeks before the actual date of Carnevale (Shrove Tuesday). Learn more about upcoming dates for Carnevale and how Carnevale is celebrated in Venice.
February 14 - Valentine's Day (Festa di San Valentino). Only in recent years has Italy begun to celebrate the feast day of Saint Valentine with hearts, love letters, and romantic candlelight dinners. Some museums also offer two-for-one admissions for couples on Valentine's Day. Celebrate by going for a gondola ride and kissing under the famous Bridge of Sights or splurging for a drink at an outside table in Saint Mark's Square in the evening. For more Venice romantic inspiration, check out this Romantic Venice photo gallery from About.com's guide to Honeymoons/Romantic Travel.
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