Emanuela Fanelli to open and close the 2025 Venice Film Festival

Hey travelers, Emanuela Fanelli to open and close the 2025 Venice Film Festival.

We’re going into the world of red carpets, cinema legends and Italian glamour. Why? Because we have big news from the Adriatic coast: Emanuela Fanelli will host both the opening and closing ceremonies of the 82nd Venice International Film Festival!

Yes, that Emanuela Fanelli—Rome-born actress, writer and master of dry humor: will be the face of Venice Film Festival 2025, from August 27 to September 6 on the magical Lido island.

This is not just about movies; it’s about lifestyle, culture and pure cinematic magic. And who knows? You might be there too.

Let’s dive in this guide by Venice Insider Guide-from Fanelli’s story to how to attend, what to do, what to expect and why this is the perfect excuse to book a trip to Italy.

Who Is Emanuela Fanelli? Meet the unexpected star of the Festival

Born in 1980 and raised in Rome, Emanuela Fanelli is not just a familiar face in Italian comedy. She’s become one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary Italian cinema. She started on stage, grew through TV and satire, and made her name with shows like Una pezza di Lundini and films like Siccità (by Paolo Virzì) and The Best Century of My Life (by Alessandro Bardani).

In 2023 she won the prestigious David di Donatello Award for Best Supporting Actress, charming the audience with her unique mix of sarcasm, emotional depth and poetic absurdity.

Why was she chosen for Venice?

Festival director Alberto Barbera chose her for her style-a balance between intelligent humor and down-to-earth storytelling. Fanelli represents a new Italy: ironic, authentic and creative.

Expect high anticipation for her opening and closing monologues. Will she drop one of her legendary punchlines on the red carpet? We hope so.

Emanuela Fanelli to open and close the 2025 Venice Film Festival: Dates, Venue & Key Info

The 82nd Venice International Film Festival will take place from August 27 to September 6, 2025. Organized by La Biennale di Venezia, it’s the oldest film festival in the world and one of the most important alongside Cannes and Berlin.

Where is it?

The main venue is the Lido of Venice, a long, narrow island between the lagoon and the Adriatic Sea. Key locations are:

• Palazzo del Cinema (Sala Grande) – Official screenings and ceremonies
• Palazzo del Casinò – Press conferences and sidebar screenings
• PalaBiennale – Giant-screen venue for film lovers and festival pass holders
• Outdoor venues & beach screenings – Yes, you can watch movies under the stars!

How can tourists attend?

There are several ways to be part of the magic:

• Public Tickets – Many screenings are open to the public and can be booked online on the official Biennale website.
• Festival Passes – Cinephile passes for non-professionals who want deeper access to the event.
• Red Carpet Viewing – You may not walk the red carpet but you can definitely see the stars up close from the sidelines.
• Open Events – Free exhibitions, book presentations and music events take place throughout Venice and the Lido during the festival.

Why Venice International Film Festival is so iconic

Founded in 1932, this is the world’s first film festival. It has celebrated legends like Federico Fellini, Sophia Loren, Martin Scorsese and more. In the past two decades it has been the launchpad for multiple Oscar-winning films such as Roma, The Shape of Water, Nomadland and Poor Things.

The Golden Lion: A cinematic dream

The festival’s top prize, the Golden Lion for Best Film, is one of the most coveted awards in world cinema. Other major awards are:

• Volpi Cup for Best Actor and Actress
• Special Jury Prize
• Orizzonti Awards for international films
• Best First Feature (Luigi De Laurentiis Award)

How to enjoy Venice during the Festival

Even if you’re not a film industry insider the Venice Film Festival is a great excuse to experience the city at its most glamorous.

What to do on the Lido between screenings

• Walk along Gran Viale – The beautiful avenue connecting the lagoon to the sea.
• Have a spritz at sunset – The Lido has bars with sea views.
• Bike around the island – The eco-friendly way to get around.
• Swim in the Adriatic – Don’t forget your swimsuit—September waters are still warm!

Where to stay during the Festival

The Lido gets full during the festival so book early. Here are your options:

• Luxury hotels on the Lido (like Hotel Excelsior) – A-list comfort and style.
• Boutique stays in Venice proper – Stay in the city and take the vaporetto over.
• Apartments and B&Bs – Great for budget-conscious travelers or longer stays.

How to get there and get around

Venice is a car-free city so your journey will always end on water.

• From Venice Marco Polo Airport – Take the Alilaguna water shuttle to the Lido.
• By train – Arrive at Venezia Santa Lucia, then take the vaporetto to the Lido.
• By car – Park at Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto, then take the vaporetto.

Once on the Lido you can walk or rent a bike. Vaporetto ferries connect the island to the rest of Venice in 15-20 minutes.

Extra events during Festival time

You don’t need a red carpet pass to feel the cinematic atmosphere. Venice has a rich side program of public events, such as:

• Venice Production Bridge – Talks, panels, masterclasses and creative pitching sessions.
• Photography Exhibits – Film-related photo retrospectives.
• Concerts & Open-air Performances – Music and arts in city squares and gardens.
• Themed Menus and Cocktails – Restaurants around town create festival-inspired dishes.

What to pack for the Venice Film Festival

Late August in Venice is warm during the day and cooler at night. Essentials include: Emanuela Fanelli to open and close the 2025 Venice Film Festival.

Don’t miss the 2025 Venice Film Festival:

• A funny host in Emanuela Fanelli
• A bunch of surprises, premieres and global stories
• Venice, the most beautiful city in the world

August 27 – September 6, 2025.