Venice is always a good choice, but even more for New Year’s Eve.
Despite the cold, humid weather, and the danger of high water, Venice can offer much during this period of the year: good food, nice parties, fireworks and arts.
Il Cenone
The Italian tradition for New Year’s Eve starts with the “Cenone” (literally translated “Huge Dinner”), with family or friends, which usually includes also nice wine like Prosecco, Panettone and Pandoro, lentils, seafood etc.
Parties
It is possible to find nice parties in Venice or in some islands, but if you are looking for a huge party you will find it easily in the nearby Mestre, which is the part of Venice on the mainland.
In Mestre you can also find Christmas Markets during this time of the year.
If you like to gamble, you can always try your luck at the Casinò di Venezia Ca Vendramin Calergi.
Fireworks
Every year, fireworks are one of the most appreciated events in Venice. They usually starts around midnight. Despite the cold, it gets crowded.
The best view is from ACTV Arsenale Stop, Riva degli Schiavoni, Riva Ca’ di Dio, Riva San Biagio, Riva dei Sette Martiri (fireworks are not visible from St. Mark Square).
Art and Music
If you like art and music, check out the New Year concert in one of the most beautiful theaters in the world: Teatro La Fenice.
Don’t forget other theaters which are also less expensive than Teatro La Fenice, like Teatro Goldoni which is also really nice.
Since 5 September 2019 and until 1 March 2020 Palazzo Ducale hosts a collection of paintings of Tiziano and Rubens.
Our advice for New Year’s Eve
What you are looking for depends on your interests. If you are not too old and you can stand the cold weather, we would advise you to choose a nice restaurants and go for a “cenone” while waiting midnight. Aroung midnight, despite the cold weather, it is really nice to reach a spot to see the fireworks, people really enjoy it and the atmosphere is magic.
Don’t forget to ask your host/restaurant for any possible change of the scheduled events due to high water or bad weather.
