The "Pantegana" Explosion Marks the Official Opening
Source:Holiday Party /
Time:2026-09-01
A spectacular water parade featuring a seven-meter-long paper-mâché rat, known as the "Pantegana," officially kicked off the 2026 Venice Carnival on Sunday, February 1. The event saw thousands of people lining the Grand Canal as the symbolic rat led a flotilla of over a hundred colorful traditional boats, with rowers in elaborate costumes. This tradition marks the official "explosion" of the Carnival and is a long-standing, beloved symbol of the festivities
