Historical Regatta Event Seasonal event

The Historical Regatta, the Grand Canal in costume

Every year, on the first Sunday of September, the Grand Canal turns into a stage for the Regata Storica, one of Venice’s most emblematic events. The festivities begin in the afternoon (generally from 3:30 pm) with a long historical procession: decorated gondolas, bissone and period boats parade along the Grand Canal, with rowers and participants in Renaissance costumes, recalling the solemn entries of dignitaries into the Republic.

The week before is also marked by traditions: blessing of the gondolini at Campo della Salute, traditional dinner (the “Disnar per la Storica”) among rowers. For visitors, the best viewpoint remains the banks of the Grand Canal (Riva del Vin, Ca’ Foscari, la Volta del Canal), to be occupied well in advance.

Plan ahead: no ticket is needed to follow the procession from the quays, but the best spots are taken early.