Costumers of Color

Venice Carnevale Trip 2026

With Costumers of Color
February 2026 | 8 Nights in Venice, Italy

Let’s go to Venice, Italy, for #historicalcostuming — and, more importantly, #inclusivecostuming!

In 2026, Costumers of Color invites you to experience the magic of Carnevale di Venezia: a week of history, artistry, and connection in the world’s most romantic city. Together, we’ll explore Venetian palaces, attend costumed celebrations, enjoy fine dining, and honor global histories through dress. Watch our 2024 Venice recap here: Costumers of Color in Venice 2024

Why Venice?

Venice enchants visitors with its sprawling Baroque palaces and labyrinth of canals. Founded in the fifth century, this “Queen of the Adriatic” is a living museum of art, architecture, and cultural exchange. The entire city — 118 islands and the lagoon that embraces them — is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its dazzling craftsmanship and enduring relationship between people and place.

What’s Included

• 8 nights in a charming hotel on the Venetian lagoon (double occupancy)
• Walking tour of St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco):
  • Basilica di San Marco — an opulent 11th-century domed church
  • Doge’s Palace — Gothic masterpiece and seat of the Venetian Republic
  • Bridge of Sighs — iconic 17th-century link between palace and prison
• Immersive local experiences: savoring cicchetti, dining in an historic palazzo
• Professional photoshoot with an experienced Venice photographer

What’s Not Included

• Airfare or train transportation to/from Venice
• Meals and beverages (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
• Porterage — guests will carry their own luggage over bridges and stairs
• Optional add-on experiences:
  • 🎭 Costumed event of your choice (starting at €130 per person)
  • 💆‍♀️ Day trip to thermal spa
  • 🎶 Opera at Teatro La Fenice
  • 🚣 Gondola ride on the Grand Canal
  • 🌈 Additional self-guided island visits (Murano, Burano, Torcello, etc.)

Draft Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Venice
Day 2 – Shopping Day: textiles, masks, and treasures
Day 3 – Piazza San Marco Highlights
Day 4 – Exploring Historical Neighborhoods
Day 5 – Costuming Event
Day 6 – Costuming Event
Day 7 – Rest & Reflection
Day 8 – Optional Spa Excursion
Day 9 – Departure

Pricing & Policies

Trip cost: $1,900+ per person (based on double occupancy)
Deposit: $500 (plus tax) due June 1, 2025
Balance: $1,400 (plus tax) due September 1, 2025
Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

By submitting your nonrefundable deposit, you agree to the conduct requirements and terms & conditions linked on our website.

Group Attire

16th C Venetian

18th C (1770-1785)

1780s-1790s

Guide to Venetian Balls

Tiepolo Ball – The Ballo Tiepolo, also known as The Grand Ball, takes place in the Palazzo Pisani Moretta — a 16th-century palace, overlooking the Grand Canal. The Main Hall is transformed for the night into an 18th-century ballroom – lit with hundreds of candles. Dance Masters, accompanied by an orchestra, guide guests through minuets and waltzes. Opera singers entertain guests, as they dine upon a 5-course meal.

Ca’ Vendramin Ball – The Ca’ Vendramin Ball is housed in a historic palace on Venice’s Grand Canal. This elegant Renaissance palazzo was built between 1481 and 1509. Guests will be treated to a feast of sights, sounds and flavors — including a 5-course dinner, gambling room and after-midnight dancing.

Doge’s Ball (Il Ballo Del Doge) – The Ballo del Doge is the most exclusive event of Venice’s Carnival. Held at the historic Palazzo Pisani Moretta, the ball starts at 8:30PM. After a welcome cocktail, dinner will be served throughout the palace’s centuries-old halls. Artistic performances, classical music and period dancing can be enjoyed until the early morning. Internationally-famed atelier Antonia Sautter has organized the event since 1992.

Casanova Ball – Inspired by the romantic legend of Giacomo Casanova, this ball will seduce your senses. Held in the majestic Palazzo Contarini, dating to the 15th century, the Casanova Ball begins with a welcome cocktail in the building’s courtyard. Next, guests get wowed by performers — including dancers, acrobats, and musicians.

Carnival Extravaganza Ball – The Carnival Extravaganza Ball is one of your last chances to experience an authentic masquerade. During and after dinner, you can learn the steps to dances from the 1700s and 1800s. A baroque ensemble will play music throughout the delectable 4-course dinner. The splendid setting for this event is Palazzo Dandolo, a canal-facing palace. It takes place the Saturday before Fat Tuesday.