The Venice Film Festival, known as Mostra del Cinema, is one of the most famous and oldest film festivals in the world. If you’re planning to visit Venice during August or early September, don’t make the mistake of missing this incredible event. It’s not just about movies—it’s about experiencing the magic of cinema in one of the most beautiful cities on Earth.
Imagine glamorous red carpets, world premieres of amazing films, and a chance to see your favorite stars up close. All this happens on Lido Island, a short boat ride from Venice’s main canals. Whether you love blockbuster hits or unique indie films, the Venice Film Festival has something for everyone.
Beyond the films, the festival creates an atmosphere you won’t forget. The excitement in the air, the stunning setting by the sea, and the mix of art, fashion, and culture make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.So, let’s dive in and discover everything about this event and what you can experience during the Venice Film Festival.
The Oldest Film Festival in the World
he Venice Film Festival began in 1932, making it the first film festival ever created. Back then, movies were still a new form of entertainment, but the people of Venice wanted to show the world that films could be as artistic and important as paintings, music, and literature.
The very first festival was small and simple. It took place on the terrace of the Hotel Excelsior, a luxurious hotel by the sea on Lido Island. Films were shown under the stars, with the soft sound of waves in the background. Over the years, this little event grew into a major international festival, where some of the world’s greatest films have premiered.
Why the Venice Film Festival Is Special
The Venice Film Festival isn’t just another movie event—it’s a celebration of cinema as an art form. What makes this festival truly special is its rich history, unique atmosphere, and its dedication to showcasing a wide variety of films from all over the world.
One of the key features of the Venice Film Festival is its focus on creativity and innovation in filmmaking. While many film festivals show big-budget blockbusters, Venice also embraces independent films and experimental cinema. This makes it a great place to discover new talent and cutting-edge filmmaking that you might not see anywhere else.
The festival also sets the stage for global cinema trends. It’s often where films are first introduced to the world, and many films that premiere at Venice go on to win major awards at other prestigious events, like the Academy Awards. Films such as The Shape of Water and La La Land started their journey to Oscar glory at the Venice Film Festival.
Moreover, the location itself adds an extra touch of magic. Lido Island, with its gorgeous beachfront, stylish venues, and glamorous atmosphere, offers the perfect backdrop for the world’s top filmmakers, actors, and fans to come together. Whether you’re walking along the red carpet or watching a film under the stars, the Venice Film Festival creates a one-of-a-kind experience that you can’t find anywhere else.
The Golden Lion Award
One of the most coveted prizes in the world of cinema, the Golden Lion Award is the highest honor at the Venice Film Festival. It is awarded to the best film of the festival and represents a symbol of excellence in the art of filmmaking.
Many movies that have won the Golden Lion went on to become famous worldwide. For example, the movie Joker won the Golden Lion in 2019 before becoming a global sensation. Another example is Roma by Alfonso Cuarón, which won in 2018 and later won several Oscars.
The Magic of Lido Island
The festival takes place on Lido Island, a long and narrow strip of land that feels like a peaceful escape from the busy streets of Venice. During the festival, Lido becomes a lively and glamorous destination.
The island is filled with beautiful venues like the Palazzo del Cinema, where the most important films are shown. Red carpets are rolled out, and fans gather to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars. There’s something magical about watching a movie on Lido, with the sea breeze in the air and the golden light of Venice all around you.
Star-Studded Red Carpets
One of the most glamorous aspects of the Venice Film Festival is the star-studded red carpet. Each evening, the world’s biggest movie stars, directors, and producers walk down the carpet in their finest outfits, creating a buzz of excitement and luxury. The red carpet is where fashion meets cinema, as celebrities make their grand entrance before heading into the theaters to watch the latest films.
The Venice Film Festival is known for its elegance and style, and the red carpet is the highlight of the event, drawing crowds of fans, photographers, and media from around the world. Fans line up along the carpet hoping to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars, while photographers snap the perfect shot of A-list celebrities arriving in stunning gowns and sharp tuxedos.
The red carpet also offers a unique opportunity to see a mix of Hollywood stars alongside international talent, making it a melting pot of different cultures and styles. Whether it’s an established actor or a rising star, the Venice Film Festival’s red carpet brings together some of the biggest names in film.
For visitors to Venice, the red carpet adds a sense of glamour and excitement to the city. Even if you’re not lucky enough to be inside the theaters, just being near the red carpet is an unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to feel the energy of the festival and catch the magic of the movie world right in the heart of Venice.
How to Attend the Venice Film Festival
Attending the Venice Film Festival is an exciting experience for any movie lover, but planning ahead is key to making the most of it.
Getting Tickets
The Venice Film Festival is open to the public, so anyone can attend! Tickets for screenings are available for purchase, but they can sell out quickly, especially for high-demand films. You can buy tickets online through the festival’s official website or directly at the venues on Lido Island.
There are different types of screenings, from general public viewings to premiere events. Premiere screenings are usually for VIP guests, industry professionals, and celebrities, but tickets for some screenings may still be available for the public.
If you want to get your hands on tickets to some of the top films, it’s best to book in advance. Keep an eye on the festival’s schedule as soon as it’s released, so you don’t miss out.
Where to Stay
The Venice Film Festival takes place on Lido Island, a beautiful, serene place just a short boat ride from Venice’s main islands. If you want to fully immerse yourself in the festival, it’s best to stay on Lido Island.
Lido offers a variety of accommodations, from luxurious hotels like the Hotel Excelsior (where many stars stay) to more affordable options for budget-conscious travelers. You can also find Airbnbs and smaller hotels on the island.
Keep in mind that Lido gets very busy during the festival, so it’s a good idea to book your accommodation early, especially if you plan to visit during the most popular days.
Dress the Part
The Venice Film Festival is known for its glamorous atmosphere, so if you’re attending the event, make sure to dress well. While you don’t need to wear a tuxedo or gown like the stars, it’s nice to dress up for the occasion.
Think chic and elegant—dresses, suits, or stylish outfits are all great choices. If you’re planning to attend the red carpet event (even if you’re just watching from afar), dress smartly to feel part of the glamorous experience.
What Makes the Festival Unique
The Venice Film Festival is unique because it blends the glamour of Hollywood with the charm of Venice. You can watch world-class films during the day and explore Venice’s canals and streets in the evening.
Another special thing is that Venice often premieres films that later win Oscars. So, by attending, you might see a masterpiece before the rest of the world knows about it!
Plan Your Visit
If you’re a movie lover, the Venice Film Festival is an experience you shouldn’t miss. Whether you want to watch films, see celebrities, or simply soak in the atmosphere, it’s an event that combines art, culture, and Venice’s timeless beauty.
Take a boat ride to Lido, dress up for a screening, and enjoy being part of a global celebration of cinema. This festival is not just about watching movies—it’s about feeling the magic of storytelling in one of the most romantic cities in the world.
