Venice International Film Festival

The Venice International Film Festival brings together stars, directors, producers and filmmakers from all over the world. Films are shown between 9:00 am and 3:00 am in various areas of the Palazzo del Cinema on the Lido.

Though many of the seats are reserved for international jury members, the public can attend virtually whenever he/she wants, depending on seat availability. You can normally spot the stars and the paparazzi for the price of a drink on the terrace of the Excelsior Hotel.

The Venice Film Festival runs for only two weeks, from late August to early September every year, showing films in three venues, the main one being the Palazzo del Cinema on Lido, while screnes are available in Venice and in Mestre. It awards prestigious prizes called the Leone d’Oro (Golden Lion). These have been for many decades, top awards for the professionalism in movie making and acting. While the Oscars are somehow more artist oriented, the Venice Festival focuses on artistic merit. The festival attracts big name film stars, though prizes still go to the non-commercial, experimental offerings.

The Biennale also organizes round the year events in Music, Dance, and Theatre.

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