A Sea of Masks (Venetian Carnival)

A Sea of Masks: The Venetian Carnival arrives in Civitavecchia

In the heart of spring, Civitavecchia dons the timeless elegance of the Serenissima with A Sea of Masks, an event that brings the magic of historical and allegorical Venetian Carnival costumes to this Lazio port city. For an entire weekend, the city center and its most iconic landmarks become an open-air stage where elegant masks parade through lantern-lit night atmospheres, evoking the refined charm of Venice.

The event is organized by the Municipality of Civitavecchia in collaboration with the Civitamask cultural association, a group that has been bringing the tradition of Venetian masks to the city for years, enlivening the local Carnival with parades in splendid period costumes.

The 2026 Program

The 2026 edition took place on Saturday, May 23rd, and Sunday, May 24th, with the gathering and preparation point at the Arena Pincio.

• Saturday, May 23rd — Participant welcome and costume preparation at Arena Pincio; starting at 8:30 PM, a spectacular night parade through the city streets, following a route that crosses the city's symbolic landmarks, from Corso Centocelle to Varco Fortezza, passing by Forte Michelangelo, Calata Principe Tommaso, and Porta Livorno. This is followed by a social gathering for the participants.
• Sunday, May 24th — A day dedicated to the national competition, featuring the official parade, jury evaluation, and the final awards ceremony, recognizing the best historical and allegorical costumes.

The Tradition of Venetian Masks

The Venetian Carnival is among the most celebrated expressions of Italian folklore: its masks, embroidered costumes, and refined atmosphere have made Venice a global synonym for elegance and mystery. In Civitavecchia, this tradition lives on thanks to the passion of the Civitamask participants, who wear meticulously detailed period outfits and transform the parades into true living tableaux. The competition rewards the skill of the costume designers and highlights the craftsmanship behind every mask.

Civitavecchia, a City of Sea and Culture

As the main port of Lazio and the historic "gateway to Rome" on the Tyrrhenian Sea, Civitavecchia, in the Province of Rome, combines its maritime vocation with a rich historical heritage ranging from Forte Michelangelo to the Terme Taurine. Hosting the Venetian Carnival in this setting creates a captivating dialogue between the sea, urban architecture, and the theatricality of the masks. A Sea of Masks has thus become an appointment capable of attracting citizens, visitors, and costume enthusiasts, offering a free experience open to everyone in the city center.

An Event for Everyone

The event is designed to engage a wide audience: families, curious onlookers, photographers, and tradition lovers find in these parades a unique opportunity to admire the art of Venetian costuming up close. The evening atmosphere, with lanterns illuminating the route, provides enchanting imagery and makes A Sea of Masks one of the most elegant events in the spring calendar of Civitavecchia and the Lazio coast.