Redentore Party: A Guide For Visitors
Venice is a city of festivals, but none is as deeply rooted in tradition and as spectacular as the Redentore Party (Festa del Redentore). Taking place every third weekend of July, this annual event blends history, religion, and celebration in a way only Venice can. From a floating bridge across the Canale della Giudecca to an incredible fireworks display over the lagoon, Redentore is an unmissable experience for any traveller visiting the city in summer.
The Origins: A Celebration of Gratitude
Redentore dates back to 1576, during one of the darkest periods in Venetian history—the plague epidemic. The disease had already devastated much of Europe, and Venice was no exception. In just two years, the plague claimed around 50,000 lives, nearly a third of the city’s population.
In a desperate attempt to seek divine intervention, the Venetian Senate vowed to build a grand church dedicated to Christ the Redeemer (“Il Redentore”) if the plague ended. Miraculously, the epidemic subsided, and in 1577, construction of Il Redentore Church on the island of Giudecca began, designed by the famed architect Andrea Palladio. To mark the end of the plague, the Venetians organised a thanksgiving procession, crossing a temporary floating bridge to the new church for a special mass. This event became an annual tradition, eventually evolving into the festival we see today.
Redentore Today: A Night of Magic
What started as a religious procession has transformed into Venice biggest and most extravagant summer celebration. While the religious aspect remains, today, Redentore is best known for its legendary fireworks display, vibrant atmosphere, and the unique way Venetians celebrate: on boats! (with lots of Prosecco)
• The Floating Bridge and Religious Traditions
Each year, a 330-meter-long floating bridge is temporarily built across the Giudecca Canal, connecting the Zattere promenade to Il Redentore Church. Thousands of Venetians and visitors walk across it to attend mass and pay homage to the city’s history.
• A Feast on the Water
As evening approaches, the lagoon transforms into a floating festival. Locals gather on boats, vaporettos, and gondolas, decorating them with lights, garlands, and lanterns. They bring traditional Venetian food, from sarde in saor (sweet-and-sour sardines) to bigoli in salsa (a Venetian pasta dish), along with an endless flow of Prosecco and Spritz. Those without boats picnic along the waterfront, especially at Riva degli Schiavoni, Zattere, and Giudecca.
• The Fireworks Spectacle
At around 11:30 PM, the highlight of the evening begins, an extraordinary fireworks display over the Venetian Lagoon. The sky lights up with dazzling colours, reflecting over the water, creating a breathtaking scene with the domes of Venice as a backdrop. This spectacle lasts nearly 40 minutes, making it one of the most incredible firework shows in the world.
• The Afterparty at the Lido
Once the fireworks end, many partygoers head to Lido beach to continue celebrating until sunrise. Here, people swim, dance, and enjoy the summer night, making Redentore a non-stop celebration from sunset to sunrise.
Why You Should Experience Redentore
Redentore is a window into Venetian culture. It’s a night where history, tradition, and festivity come together in the most spectacular way. Whether you join the pilgrimage across the floating bridge, watch the fireworks from a boat, or party at the Lido, Redentore is a one-of-a-kind experience that should be on every traveller’s bucket list.
Tips for Enjoying Redentore Like a Local
- Book a boat early – If you want to experience the fireworks from the water, organise your boat rental in advance.
- Reserve a restaurant with a view – Many places along the Grand Canal and Giudecca offer special Redentore menus.
- Find a good spot early – If you’re watching from the shore, head to Riva degli Schiavoni or Zattere in the early evening for the best views.
- Stay up for sunrise at Lido – The celebration doesn’t end with the fireworks!
Redentore is Venice at its finest—romantic, historic, and unforgettable. If you’re visiting in July, don’t miss this magical night on the lagoon and drop us a message here to book your boat at Vidal Venice Tours!