Hey travelers, welcome to the guide by the Venice Insider Guide - your one-stop-shop for all the inside scoop on the most talked about event of the Venice Carnival 2026: the Carnival Grand Ball with Bridgerton (the official masquerade ball of the program).
Get ready for a deep dive into everything you need to know to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Get ready to discover the magic in this guide from Venice Insider Guide and start planning your trip like a pro.
Carnival Grand Ball with Bridgerton in Venice 2026
The magic of Venice in winter meets the opulence of Bridgerton. On this one special night the whole of St. Mark’s Square will be transformed into an open-air ballroom, officially kicking off the Venice Carnival 2026 in style.
It’s a free event that's open to everyone, and yet, still somehow wraps you in the feeling of attending an aristocratic ball you won’t ever forget.
The way Lady Whistledown speaks directly to you...
This is more than just a promotion - it's a story that becomes part of the experience. Lady Whistledown - that fabulous narrator of the Bridgerton universe - is going to extend an invitation to the romantics, the series fans and all the lovers of Venetian masks from around the world through an official video message and a special letter on a Netflix profile Instagram post.
By blending fiction with the real historical atmosphere of Venice, the event creates a bridge between digital pop culture and traditional carnival festivities which will make you feel like you've stepped into a real-life period drama.
What is the Carnival Grand Ball with Bridgerton?
The Carnival Grand Ball with Bridgerton is an extra-special event to mark the beginning of the Venice Carnival 2026. This time, it’s all about celebrating the launch of the fourth season of Bridgerton on Netflix.
The event brings together the grand spectacle of the Venetian Carnival with the romance of Regency high society.
A collaboration between Bridgerton by Netflix and the Venice Carnival
This grand ball is a joint effort between the Venice Carnival organizers and Netflix. And the best part is - rather than being a private gala, the whole thing is open to anyone and everyone. St. Mark's Square will become a theatrical dance floor, where the audience and the performers mingle together in a shared celebration.
Fun fact: The Venice Carnival has always been a bit of a pioneer when it comes to adapting to the times. And in 2026, it proves once again that historic festivals can reach out to modern storytelling and turn it into a live experience that the whole world can enjoy.
What to Expect at the Venice Carnival Bridgerton Ball?
The Carnival Grand Ball with Bridgerton is shaping up to be one of the biggest and most spectacular events of the Venice Carnival 2026.
The grand ball will transform St Mark's Square into an open-air ballroom where you can expect to find traditional costumes, sweeping music, lively dancing, and a whole host of beautiful masks all blending together to create a truly immersive experience.
Inspired by the fourth season of Bridgerton, this event is inviting people from all around the world to come join in and be part of a truly engaging experience that combines fiction with real Venetian history.
Professional dancers in period-inspired costumes that will stop you in your tracks
Imagine St. Mark’s Square animated by professional dancers dressed in the most stunning Regency-style costumes. These performers aren’t just staging choreographies - they're really getting the crowd involved and inviting people to join in the fun. The result is a truly unforgettable spectacle where elegance and spontaneity blend together.
The sets and performances that will transport you to another world
The square becomes a living stage. With the help of music, lighting and all sorts of choreographed performances the space is transformed into an immersive environment that’s just like stepping into the world of Bridgerton. You won’t just be a spectator, you'll be part of the scene - and the Carnival will literally come alive before your eyes.
Venice has always been a place where history and drama come alive... As we all know, the city has a long and rich history of hosting aristocratic festivities, masked balls and public spectacles dating back centuries. The Bridgerton-themed ball draws on all that legacy of theatrical elegance, but with a modern twist that will blow you away.
When - Carnival Grand Ball with Bridgerton
The date of the Carnival Grand Ball with Bridgerton is Saturday, January 31, 2026.
This event marks the official beginning of the Venice Carnival 2026, which will go on to celebrate for weeks into February. If you’re planning on attending this spectacular event, you’ll be experiencing the Carnival at the very start and getting a chance to see the whole thing kick off in style.
Where - Carnival Grand Ball with Bridgerton
Where will Carnival Grand Ball with Bridgerton take place in Venice in 2026? The location is Piazza San Marco, St. Mark’s Square, Venice.
The most famous square in Venice is the perfect setting for this grand open-air ball - with the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica and the Campanile creating a breathtaking backdrop. The event will combine architectural splendor with the drama of a live performance, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Why St Marks Square?
For centuries, this incredible square has been hosting Carnival celebrations, and its sheer grandeur just can't be beat – a real spectacle that draws in the crowds. It's a place where history and modern imagination collide, all wrapped up in one unforgettable space.
Time – The Carnival Grand Ball with Bridgerton
The time of the Carnival Grand Ball with Bridgerton in Venice 2026 is at 5.00pm to 7.00pm.
Over the course of two hours, St Marks Square transforms into a magical ballroom under the winter sky. If you want a good spot and some amazing photos, get there early - the place packs out quickly.
Tip from the inside: Bring a Venetian mask if you can, or just dress up a bit. Even a simple accessory will help you get in the mood and make it feel like you're starring in some historical film.
FAQ
Is the Carnival Grand Ball with Bridgerton free to get into?
Yeah, the event in St Marks Square is totally free - anyone can come along and join in.
Do I need to book to join in?
No, you don't need to book in advance. But do get there at least 30 to 45 minutes before 5.00pm - the square can get pretty packed.
Do I have to wear a costume?
No way - tons of people come along in normal clothes, often paired with a mask. But if you do dress up, in some period-style or fancy gear for instance, it really does add to the fun and helps you get in the Bridgerton vibe.
How long does the whole thing last?
About two hours, from 5.00pm to 7.00pm. Expect loads of music, dancing and live performances to keep you entertained.
Conclusion
The Carnival Grand Ball with Bridgerton in Venice 2026 is so much more than just a fun event. It's a chance for Venice to connect with its past, and make that story a part of the world's imagination.
With dancing, fabulous costumes and drama-filled performances, it really does feel like you're the hero of a story set in one of the world's most stunning squares.
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