Redentore Festival in Venice

Redentore Festival in Venice: History, Tradition and Magic on the San Marco Basin

What is the Festa del Redentore and why it’s celebrated

The Festa del Redentore is one of Venice’s most beloved celebrations. Held every third Sunday in July, it commemorates the end of the devastating plague of 1576, which killed nearly a quarter of the population. In gratitude, Doge Sebastiano Venier commissioned the building of the Church of the Redeemer on the island of Giudecca, designed by Renaissance master Andrea Palladio. Since then Venice has honored this vow with a celebration that blends spirituality, tradition and pure spectacle.

When it takes place

Although the main event is on Sunday, the festivities begin Friday:

• Friday: families decorate their boats, terraces and altanas with lights and colorful decorations.

• Saturday evening: the lagoon fills with festively lit boats and celebratory crowds.

• Sunday: a foot procession across the floating votive bridge and the Regatta del Redentore in the Giudecca Canal.

The fireworks show

The highlight comes at 11:30 pm on Saturday, when fireworks light up the San Marco Basin. The pyrotechnics reflect on the water, framing St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace, the Basilica della Salute and the Riva degli Schiavoni in a stunning display. Each burst is greeted by applauses and cheers—a breathtaking spectacle.

How Venetians celebrate

Venetians live the Redentore as a communal celebration. Those with boats, terraces or altanas decorate lavishly. Dinner is a festive focal point, featuring traditional dishes:

• Sarde in saor

• Stuffed “mute duck”

• Beans with onion

• Watermelon, sweets and plenty of wine

Friends gather for songs, dances and laughter—celebrating the beauty of being together.

The votive bridge and regatta

A symbolic element is the floating bridge built each year to connect Zattere to the Church of the Redeemer. This allows worshippers to walk in procession as an act of faith and historical remembrance.
On Sunday, the festa concludes with the Regatta del Redentore, a Venetian rowing race in the Giudecca Canal. The start and finish line lie in front of the church, set in a lively and participatory atmosphere.

Why you should join

Experiencing the Festa del Redentore means immersing yourself in the authentic soul of Venice. It’s not just a religious celebration or folklore spectacle—it’s a blend of emotion, history, community and beauty that engages all the senses.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Venice during this weekend, don’t miss it. Book a boat or terrace early and let yourself be carried away by the magic.

In conclusion

Each year, Venice lights up for the Redentore, celebrating life, memory and beauty with fireworks, food, music and tradition. This year, it’s your turn to be part of it.
Don’t miss the Festa del Redentore in Venice: an experience that stays with you forever.