As spring unfolds between late April and early May, the Venetian area invites you to discover traditions that are still deeply rooted in local life.
If you are staying at Marina di Venezia during this time, you can experience two different yet complementary moments: St Mark’s Day in Venice on 25 April, and the Sparesea Festival on 1 May, dedicated to the asparagus of Cavallino-Treporti.
25 April in Venice: St Mark’s Day
On 25 April, Venice celebrates its patron saint, St Mark, with a tradition that is both simple and deeply meaningful.
It is the day of the bocolo—a rosebud given as a sign of love. This symbolic gesture has its roots in the history of the Serenissima and is still passed down today.
Walking through Venice on this day, you will notice a distinctive atmosphere:
the calli fill with people holding a rose
St Mark’s Square becomes the heart of the celebrations
the city expresses a strong sense of identity and tradition
Visiting Venice on this day allows you to experience the city in a more authentic and heartfelt way.
1 May: the Sparesea Festival
Just a few days later, on 1 May, Cavallino-Treporti celebrates one of its most iconic products: asparagus.
The Sparesea Festival is a simple and genuine event, closely connected to the local community. Over the years, it has grown in visibility, enriched with events and activities, while preserving the convivial spirit typical of village festivals.
During the festival, you can:
enjoy typical asparagus-based dishes
discover traditional Venetian recipes
take part in local activities and entertainment
experience an informal and authentic atmosphere
It is a pleasant opportunity for anyone who wishes to discover the area from a more local and spontaneous perspective.
Alongside the festival, the Sparesea Run has also gained popularity in recent years—a non-competitive race open to everyone, winding through roads, fields and the characteristic landscapes of the coastline.
A different way to experience the area, combining outdoor activity with landscape discovery in a relaxed and accessible setting.
Cavallino-Treporti asparagus: a seasonal product
The star of the festival is the asparagus grown in the sandy soils of Cavallino-Treporti, which give it a delicate and distinctive flavour.
Its seasonality makes it even more special: an ingredient available only for a limited time of the year, celebrated in many traditional dishes.
See the full programme.
Two experiences, one territory
Visiting Cavallino-Treporti and Venice between 25 April and 1 May means experiencing two sides of the same territory: on one hand, the history and symbolism of the Serenissima; on the other, the more everyday and convivial spirit of the coastline.
From Marina di Venezia, both experiences are easy to reach and can enrich your stay with moments that feel different from the usual.
A suggestion for your stay
If you are staying during this period, you can plan your holiday by alternating a day in Venice for St Mark’s Day with a more informal moment at the Sparesea Festival.
From Marina di Venezia, both experiences are within easy reach and can turn into a day unlike any other—between nature, culture and local flavours.