Cao de Ano – Veneto New Year
The re-enactment of the ancient New Year of the Serenissima in Jesolo
About Cao de Ano
When the New Year Began in March
For the Republic of Venice, the year did not begin on January 1st but on March 1st: this was the more veneto, the calendar of the Serenissima. From this ancient custom, Cao de Ano – Veneto New Year was born, the festival with which Jesolo, on the coast of the province of Venice, recovers and celebrates its lagoon roots between late February and early March.
History and Spectacle Together
Cao de Ano is divided into several events that combine historical-educational insights and spectacular experiences. These range from conferences on the costumes, flags, and banners of the Serenissima—held at the Civic Library and the Vivaldi Theatre—to moments of pure enchantment like the escape room dedicated to Casanova.
The Heart of the Celebration: The Regatta and Parade
The highlight is the day of the regatta on the Sile river, followed by the parade in Piazza Primo Maggio with the Doge and Caterina Cornaro, the Queen of Cyprus linked to Venetian history. The evening continues with the dancing fountains show and culminates with the theatrical performance Casanova Gran Tour at the Vivaldi Theatre.
A Different New Year's Eve, in Jesolo Paese
Far from the beach and summer seaside tourism, Cao de Ano takes visitors to the historic center of Jesolo Paese, rediscovering the Venetian soul of a city that was an integral part of the Serenissima. A free event, ideal for those who want to discover the history of the lagoon in a festive and theatrical way.
Cao de Ano — edition 2026
The 2026 edition of Cao de Ano – Veneto New Year features six events between February 21 and March 3, alternating historical insights and entertainment. The highlight of the festival is Saturday, February 28th, with the regatta on the Sile river, the parade in Piazza Primo Maggio with the Doge and Caterina Cornaro, the dancing fountains show, and the theatrical performance Casanova Gran Tour at the Vivaldi Theatre. All events have free admission.
Programme Cao de Ano 2026
Saturday, February 21
- 2:30 PM–7:30 PM — Escape room with Casanova (Ex-Barracks Space)
- 8:30 PM — Conference at the Vivaldi Theatre
Thursday, February 26
- 6:00 PM — Conference on Serenissima costumes (Civic Library – Gelli Room)
Saturday, February 28
- 4:45 PM — Regatta on the Sile river and parade in Piazza Primo Maggio with the Doge and Caterina Cornaro
- 6:15 PM — Dancing fountains show
- 9:00 PM — Theatrical performance Casanova Gran Tour (Vivaldi Theatre)
Tuesday, March 3
- 6:00 PM — Conference on Venetian flags and banners (Civic Library – Gelli Room)
Highlights Cao de Ano 2026
The events of February 28th: regatta on the Sile, parade with the Doge and Caterina Cornaro, dancing fountains, and the Casanova Gran Tour theatrical performance.
Prices Cao de Ano 2026
Practical information — Cao de Ano
How to Get There
Jesolo is located in the province of Venice. The Cao de Ano events take place in Jesolo Paese (historic center), in Piazza Primo Maggio, at the Vivaldi Theatre, and the Civic Library. By car: A4 highway exit Noventa di Piave/San Donà di Piave. In summer, a motorboat connection from Venice is available; outside the season, it's best to come by car or bus.
Admission
Free admission to all events.
When to Go
The festival takes place between late February and early March. Don't miss the day of the regatta on the Sile with the costume parade.
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Where does it take place — Cao de Ano
Jesolo Paese – Piazza Primo Maggio, Teatro Vivaldi, Biblioteca Civica
Piazza Primo Maggio, Jesolo Paese, 30016 Jesolo