Venice in May is full of color and life. Wisteria drapes over garden walls, jasmine scents the air and the canals sparkle in the spring light. It's a wonderful time to wander through hidden gardens and linger along quiet canals. There are also some great events happening in the city this month, so be sure to check out our top picks for the month!
9 May - 22 November 2026
The 19th edition of the International Architecture Exhibition will be held in the Arsenale di Venezia and Giardini della Biennale, curated by internationally acclaimed architect, scholar and urban planner Carlo Ratti. This year's theme, "Intelligens. Natural. Artificial. Collective," explores solutions to global climate challenges by blending the natural and artificial, while fostering community collaboration to rethink how we build for the future. Eleven contributions from various organizations will present discoveries in the evolving fields of habitat design.
Website: http://labiennale.org/en/architecture/2025/information
27 - 31 May 2026
In a city with centuries of shipbuilding history, the quays of the historic Arsenal will host the sixth edition of the Venice Boat Show, organized by the Municipality of Venice and the Italian Navy. More than 300 exhibitors from shipyards around the world will showcase their latest designs, with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation. Highlights include the return of the popular "E-regatta" electric boat races along the Grand Canal, exhibitions, educational events and water competitions.
Website: https://salonenautico.venezia.it/en/
.jpg)
17 May 2026
Held each year on Ascension Day, the Festa della Sensa celebrates both Venice's historic maritime power and its enduring relationship with the sea. In a tradition dating back centuries, the mayor, accompanied by costumed rowers and musicians, boards the ceremonial vessel Serenissima for the symbolic "marriage to the sea." The procession departs from Bacino di San Marco, with hundreds of boats following in a colorful parade to the Church of San Nicolò on the Lido, where a golden ring is cast into the water. A choir and mass follow, while the city's rowing guilds return to the canals for a spirited race.
.jpg)
24 May 2026
Held each year around late May or early June, Vogalonga is a non-competitive rowing event that celebrates Venice's deep connection to the water. Thousands of participants in traditional Venetian boats, kayaks, canoes and more row together along a scenic 30 km course through the city and out into the lagoon. What began in 1975 as a protest against the rise of motorized boats has grown into one of Venice's most beloved traditions, drawing rowers from around the world. A complete map of the race's route can be found on the official Vogalonga website.
Website: https://vogalonga.com/en/
Sign up for our Vacation Perfect newsletter and real estate updates.