Carnival Mask Workshop in Venice

The Grand Canal, gondola rides, touring museums and palaces, snapping selfies on quaint stone bridges. There are so many must-see sites in Venice that it’s refreshing to pause and invest a few hours in a craft that started there more than a millennium ago.

Take a break from the crowds to immerse yourself in a calming cultural activity. Ideal for individuals and families alike, a carnival mask workshop in Venice is sure to be a highlight of your visit to this legendary city.

Continue reading our detailed guide with useful information on carnival mask workshops, one of the most fun workshops and classes in Venice.

What are the most popular carnival mask workshops in Venice?

Spark your creativity while engaging in a quintessential Venetian experience. Carnival mask making workshops in Venice provide you with all the materials and instructions to fabricate a work of art that’s better than any bought souvenir.

Meet your patient and experienced instructor who will regale you with all you need to know about decorating your own mask.

Hear the rich history of the carnival mask, see samples from traditional to avant-garde styles and let your imagination take control as you produce a piece to take home with you.

The best workshops are close to central Venice for easy access, and with time frames of 1 to 2 hours, you can easily fit this experience into a day of sightseeing.

What will you do?

Take part in a centuries-old Venetian practice with a carnival mask workshop. With the help of a skilled craftsperson, design and execute your vision of a carnival mask with a vast array of adornments at your disposal.

Choose feathers, paints, fabrics and lace, jewels and ribbons for a creation fit for any carnival festivities.

How much do carnival mask workshops in Venice cost?

Carnival mask workshops cost around €55 per person to €75 per person, depending on the duration of the class.  

Prices for children for most workshops range from €55 per person to €60 per person under the age of 13.

Mask workshops are great fun for families. Most studios offer reduced child prices, however not all workshops are child-friendly.

One-hour sessions have you decorate a pre-made mask, whereas 2-hour workshops help you form a mask out of papier-mache followed by embellishing it to your tastes.

What is included? Do I need to bring anything?

Carnival mask making workshops in Venice provide you with materials and guidance on how to fabricate a mask that you will be happy with while learning the centuries of history behind this colorful custom.

Your instructor will show you examples and allow you to choose from a wide range of mask shapes to personalize to your liking. Longer workshops add instructions and materials for creating a papier-mache mask from scratch.

The materials available include papier-mache or a pre-made mask plus paints, fabrics, feathers, gold leaf, Swarovski crystals and more.

Some mask workshops also give you an apron to protect your clothing while you work. Instructors will be on hand to help you design and execute a creation you’ll be proud of.

Where is the meeting point for carnival mask workshops?

Most carnival mask workshops have you meet a guide in Piazza San Marco for a short walk to the studio. Some classes ask that you meet at the studio itself on Calle de la Erbe near the Ponte Rosso.

How long does it last?

Carnival mask workshops last from 1 to 2 hours. Options include simply decorating a pre-made mask or starting by crafting a papier-mache mask yourself followed by detailing it.

Masks require around 6 hours of drying time, so you will need to return to the studio to pick up your work at a later time.

When is the best time to plan a carnival mask workshop in Venice?

While a carnival mask workshop can be a blast any time of year, the chance to wear it during a carnival event is the icing on the cake.

Plan your visit to Venice and your mask making workshop for mid-February for the opportunity to join Venetians in the centuries-old traditions.

Travel tips

• Wear clothing that is appropriate for painting.
• Book your experience early, as spaces for workshops are limited.
• Since paints and glues you’ll use need to dry, you will need to pick up your mask at a later time.