Festa del Bòcolo: a Venetian tribute to eternal love on April 25th

On April 25th, Venice celebrates the Festa del Bòcolo, an ancient tradition that blends romance, history, and legend. On this day dedicated to Saint Mark, lovers exchange a red rose as a symbol of eternal love, inspired by the story of Tancredi and the Doge’s daughter.

Discover the origins of the Bòcolo, the Venetian legends behind it, and how Caffè Florian embraces the poetry of this special day.

A rose of blood and love: the legend behind the Bòcolo

Faith, art and history come together in this festival that also tells the story of love in Venice: a love that tried to overcome social barriers.

The love between Maria, daughter of Doge Orso I Partecipazio, and the young storyteller Tancredi.

To redeem his humble origins Tancredi volunteered to fight the Moors of Spain, ordered by Charlemagne. He became famous for his bravery, but in battle he was mortally wounded and fell on white roses, staining the flowers with his own blood. As a final gesture of love, he entrusted a rosebud to his companion Orlando to give to his beloved Maria.

The red rose, stained with Tancredi’s blood, arrived in Venice on 25 April. On 26 April, Maria died of grief, holding in her hands the gift from her beloved.

This tragic act of pure love marked the start of the tradition of giving a red rose, as a symbol of eternal love, that continues to live every year during the Bòcolo Feast.

April 25th in Venice: when love blossoms with a rose

April 25th in Venice is a day that unites devotion, tradition and romance.

This day is dedicated to the Bòcolo Feast, one of the most romantic traditions, and also to the Fest of St. Mark, the patron saint of Venice. His image, represented by the winged Lion, symbol of the Serenissima, is a clear emblem of power, justice, and spirituality – qualities that have always defined the lagoon city.

On this special day, Venice celebrates eternal love and also its history, culture and deep connection to its patron, creating a unique atmosphere that envelops the entire community.

Tradition in bloom: culture, love, and memory

The Bòcolo Feast is much more than a celebration: it is a unique opportunity for everyone, both Venetians and visitors, to immerse themselves in a tradition that has its roots in history and love.

On this day, St. Mark’s Square provides the setting for shared emotions; couples of all ages gather to share a kiss, perpetuating the tradition in an atmosphere of celebration and community. In that moment, the special atmosphere envelops every gesture, creating an invisible bond between the participants.

The celebration doesn’t stop at the majestic Square and pervades every corner of the lagoon city, uniting everyone in a collective celebration of eternal love.

Risi e Bisi: the flavor of Venetian celebration

During St Mark’s Day, Venetian gastronomy celebrates tradition and seasonality with dishes that reflect the cultural richness of the city.

‘Fugassa venexiana‘, a leavened cake similar to panettone, is a classic example of how Venetians celebrate abundance.

‘Risi e bisi’, rice and peas, is another traditional dish that pays homage to the Venetian spring with its simplicity and the freshness of its ingredients.

These dishes are not only culinary delights, but also expressions of a history and heritage handed down from generation to generation, keeping alive Venice’s roots and identity.

A modern symbol of affection and respect?

In the heart of St. Mark’s Square in Venice, Caffè Florian is a true symbol of Venetian tradition, a place that preserves the history and magic of the city.

Every year, on April 25th, this historic Coffeehouse transforms into the perfect setting to celebrate the ritual of the “bòcolo”, offering all its guests a red rosebud, just as every Venetian does with her beloved.

Seated on the red velvet couches and enveloped by the timeless poetry of this feast, couples exchange their rosebuds, immersing themselves in the Florian’s magical atmosphere that transforms every moment in an eternal memory.

For those who wish to take home a piece of this unique experience, it offers the exclusive Florian Edition, a collection of books that tell the story of Florian and more, the perfect memento to preserve this fascinating tradition in your heart.