by MK
On Feb. 17, the final day of Carnival in Venice unfolded under clear skies, with much of the focus on one of the festival’s most enduring traditions: the Marie.
Rooted in a medieval legend and revived in modern form, the Festa delle Marie celebrates 12 young women selected each year to represent the city’s districts. On Tuesday, the group marked a symbolic farewell to this year’s festivities, departing from Campo San Giacomo dall’Orio aboard traditional boats for a ceremonial procession along the Grand Canal, organized by local rowing associations.
Later in the afternoon, organizers presented the “Maria of the Year 2026,” a title awarded annually to one participant and considered a highlight of the closing program.
The day concluded with the final parade and the contest for the most beautiful mask, effectively bringing the Carnival of Venice to a close.
