Fireworks 2026

New Year's Eve 2027 in Venice: the fireworks display over St Mark's Basin

Venice has a special charm during the Christmas holidays, but it is on New Year's Eve that the city prepares to bid farewell to the year just gone with one of its most eagerly awaited events: the fireworks display over St Mark's Basin.

On the night of 31 December 2026, Venice will welcome the arrival of 2027 in an atmosphere of lights, reflections on the water and extraordinary views. An opportunity to discover the city in a different light, among evening strolls, illuminated palaces and the desire to share a special moment.

For those choosing to spend New Year's Eve in Venice, the night of 31 December is an experience that embraces not only the city's most famous landmarks but its entire atmosphere.

Venice on New Year's Eve: a city transformed

During the final days of December, Venice takes on a particularly enchanting character.

Christmas lights accompany walks through the calli and squares, shop windows are dressed for the festivities, and reflections on the waters of the canals make the scenery even more captivating.

The winter chill invites visitors to stop at historic cafés, while the shorter days make it possible to admire the illuminated city from late afternoon onwards.

What also makes this period special is the anticipation of midnight. Venice prepares to celebrate the arrival of the new year, and St Mark's Basin traditionally becomes the centre of the fireworks display.

The fireworks over St Mark's Basin

The fireworks display is one of the most recognisable moments of New Year's Eve in Venice.

When the sky lights up above St Mark's Basin, the colours are reflected on the surface of the water, creating a particularly spectacular visual effect.

What makes this display different from those in many other cities is above all its architectural setting.

The Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, the Doge's Palace, the island of San Giorgio Maggiore and the buildings overlooking the basin all contribute to creating an extraordinary backdrop.

The reflections on the water multiply the lights and transform every burst of fireworks into an image that seems to belong in a painting.

It is one of those moments when the Venetian landscape becomes an integral part of the spectacle.

Where to watch the fireworks in Venice

To enjoy the fireworks display, choosing the right viewing point is important.

In previous editions, the areas recommended by the Municipality of Venice were located along the waterfront overlooking St Mark's Basin, particularly Riva degli Schiavoni, Riva Ca' di Dio, Riva San Biagio and Riva dei Sette Martiri.

An important detail concerns St Mark's Square: despite its proximity, in recent editions the fireworks were not directly visible from the Square or the Piazzetta, but from the waterfront areas facing the basin.

Municipality of Venice.

For New Year's Eve 2027, it will be necessary to check the official guidelines, as access points, areas reserved for the public and safety regulations may change.

A romantic night among calli and canals

Spending New Year's Eve in Venice also means being able to create an evening different from traditional large celebrations.

Dinner at a restaurant in the historic centre, a walk through illuminated calli, passing in front of the Doge's Palace and waiting for midnight along the waterfront can become the most memorable moments of the stay.

For couples, Venice offers a particularly romantic atmosphere. For friends and families, it is an opportunity to share an experience in one of the most fascinating cities in the world.

After the midnight toast, the walk back through the calli offers a chance to see Venice at an unusual moment, when the festive lights gradually give way to the quiet of the night.

The first day of the year in Venice

The charm of New Year's Eve in Venice does not end at midnight.

1 January can become an opportunity to start the year by taking the time to discover the city at a leisurely pace.

A walk along the Grand Canal, a visit to one of Venice's iconic landmarks or an itinerary through quieter squares and calli can extend the experience.

The winter light, reflections on the water and festive atmosphere make even a simple stroll particularly enjoyable.

Why choose Venice for New Year's Eve 2027

Venice is a destination capable of making even the simplest moments special.

The transition to the new year takes on a distinctive character here thanks to the beauty of the landscape, the history of the city and the tradition of fireworks displays over St Mark's Basin.

For those wishing to spend the holidays in the heart of the historic centre, Relais il Doge, with its rooms in the buildings at Piazza San Marco 312 and 286, offers a privileged location from which to explore the city and experience the atmosphere of New Year's Eve in Venice.

A stay to bid farewell to 2026, welcome the new year and take home the memory of Venice illuminated for the celebrations.