Dear readers,

Join me today on a journey to discover the traditions and celebrations of midsummer in Venice, a time of year when the city comes alive with festivities that reflect its communal spirit and rich cultural heritage.

The feast of St. John the Baptist, held on June 24th, is one of the most anticipated events of the Venetian summer. Traditionally, this festival marked the beginning of the tourist season and was celebrated with large ritual fires, dancing, and singing along the canals and squares. Venetians and visitors still gather today to enjoy firework displays that light up the night sky, creating a magical reflection on the lagoon waters.

Another highlight is the Festa del Redentore, an event that combines deep spirituality with spectacular festivities. Originally established in 1577 to give thanks for the end of a terrible plague epidemic, the festival includes a regatta and the construction of a bridge of boats that connects Venice to the Redentore sanctuary on the island of Giudecca, symbolizing the connection between the city and the divine.

During these festivities, it is also traditional to enjoy typical Venetian dishes such as sarde in saor, a preparation of marinated sardines that reflects the city’s maritime heritage. The streets fill with stalls offering local food, crafts, and live music, transforming every corner of Venice into a celebration of colors and flavors.

Midsummer in Venice is not just an occasion for celebration; it is a time to renew connections with the city’s history and traditions, a moment when the community comes together to share the joy and beauty of lagoon life.

I invite you to participate in these celebrations, to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, and to discover the beating heart of Venice during the summer.

Until our next summer celebration