Festa del Redentore (Feast Day of the Redeemer)

One of Venice’s most important religious festivals, the Feast Day of The Redeemer (Il Redentore) is also one of the most traditional, dating back to 1576 in commemoration of the end of the plague that wiped out a third of the city’s population. The Church of the Redentore was built on Giudecca Island, and a promise was made by the Doge to lead a procession of thanksgiving every year to the church. At sunset the waterways are filled with hundreds of brightly lit and decorated boats, while the banks of the canal are lined with feasting and dancing. The highlight is the tremendous fireworks display accompanied by music, considered by many to be one of the most spectacular in the world. Regattas, rowing competitions, and special services in the Redentore Church (reached via the boat bridge) also form part of the festivities. For more information phone +39 04 1274 7736.