St. Mark's Day
2029Wednesday, April 25
Quick Facts
- Date
- Wednesday, April 25, 2029
- Observed in
- Italy
- Type
- Religious Holiday
What is St. Mark's Day?
St. Mark's Day (Festa di San Marco) is celebrated on April 25th in honor of Saint Mark the Evangelist, the patron saint of Venice. This day holds special significance for Venetians, who have venerated Saint Mark since his relics were brought to the city from Alexandria, Egypt in 828 AD.
The celebration combines religious observances with beloved local traditions, most notably the custom of men giving red rosebuds (bocolo) to the women they love. The day features special masses at St. Mark's Basilica, processions, and the historic regatta on the Grand Canal.
St. Mark's Day is deeply intertwined with Venetian identity. The winged lion of Saint Mark, derived from his gospel symbolism, remains the emblem of Venice and can be seen throughout the city on flags, buildings, and monuments.
When is St. Mark's Day 2029?
St. Mark's Day is on Wednesday, April 25 in 2029. Check the dates and days for other years in the table below.
History & Origin
Saint Mark the Evangelist, author of the Gospel of Mark, is believed to have been martyred in Alexandria, Egypt around 68 AD. According to tradition, he was dragged through the streets and killed for his Christian faith.
In 828 AD, two Venetian merchants, Buono da Malamocco and Rustico da Torcello, smuggled Saint Mark's relics from Alexandria to Venice. Legend states they hid the remains under layers of pork and cabbage to prevent Muslim customs officials from inspecting the cargo. The relics arrived in Venice and were presented to the Doge, who ordered the construction of a church to house them.
The original church was replaced by the magnificent St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco), begun in 1063 and consecrated in 1094. This architectural masterpiece, with its Byzantine domes and golden mosaics, became the spiritual heart of Venice and a symbol of the city's wealth and power. Saint Mark replaced the previous patron saint, Theodore, and the winged lion became Venice's enduring symbol.
How It's Celebrated
The Bocolo Tradition: On April 25th, Venetian men give a single red rosebud (bocolo) to their beloved - wife, girlfriend, mother, or daughter. This romantic custom dates back to a legend about a noblewoman and her lover.
Religious Ceremonies: Special masses are held at St. Mark's Basilica, with the Patriarch of Venice leading the celebrations. The relics of Saint Mark are venerated by the faithful.
Historical Regatta: A traditional regatta takes place on the Grand Canal, featuring gondolas and historic boats racing in honor of the patron saint.
Procession of the Doge: Historical reenactments recall the ceremonies of the Venetian Republic, with costumed participants processing through St. Mark's Square.
Opening of the Basilica Loggia: The upper loggia of St. Mark's Basilica is opened to the public, offering spectacular views of the square.
Local Markets: Flower vendors set up stalls throughout Venice selling the traditional red rosebuds.
Family Gatherings: Venetian families come together for special meals, often featuring traditional spring dishes.
Where It's Observed
Fun Facts
- The bocolo tradition allegedly began with a tragic love story between a noblewoman named Maria and a troubadour named Tancredi, who died in battle
- St. Mark's Basilica contains over 85,000 square feet of golden mosaics
- The winged lion of Saint Mark appears on the flag of the Veneto region and was the symbol of the Venetian Republic for over a thousand years
- When Saint Mark's relics were stolen from Alexandria, Venetians reportedly shouted Vegnimo, Vegnimo meaning We are coming to celebrate their arrival
- The Venetian saying In bocca al lupo di San Marco (In the mouth of Saint Mark's lion) is used to wish good luck
- April 25th is a double holiday in Italy - it is both St. Mark's Day and Liberation Day commemorating the end of Nazi occupation
- The four bronze horses on St. Mark's Basilica were looted from Constantinople in 1204 during the Fourth Crusade
- Saint Mark's symbol of the winged lion holding an open book with the words Pax tibi Marce evangelista meus (Peace to you, Mark, my evangelist) remains ubiquitous in Venice
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Saint Mark the patron saint of Venice?
Saint Mark became Venice's patron saint after his relics were brought to the city from Alexandria, Egypt in 828 AD by two Venetian merchants. The arrival of the relics greatly enhanced Venice's prestige, and the Doge built St. Mark's Basilica to house them. Saint Mark replaced the previous patron, Saint Theodore.
What is the bocolo tradition?
The bocolo tradition involves Venetian men giving a single red rosebud (bocolo in Venetian dialect) to the women they love on April 25th. This can be a wife, girlfriend, mother, or daughter. The custom is linked to a romantic legend about a noblewoman and her lover.
Can you visit St. Mark's Basilica on St. Mark's Day?
Yes, St. Mark's Basilica is open on April 25th and special religious services are held. However, expect larger crowds than usual. The basilica may have restricted access during liturgical celebrations, so check schedules in advance.
Why is St. Mark represented by a winged lion?
The winged lion symbolizes Saint Mark based on the four living creatures described in Ezekiel and Revelation. The lion represents courage and resurrection. Mark's Gospel begins with John the Baptist crying out in the wilderness, which early Christians assočiated with a lion's roar.
Is April 25th a public holiday in Venice?
April 25th is a national public holiday throughout Italy as Liberation Day (Festa della Liberazione). In Venice, the day has special significance as it is also St. Mark's Day (Festa di San Marco), the city's patron saint celebration.
What events take place on St. Mark's Day?
St. Mark's Day features religious services at St. Mark's Basilica, the traditional regatta on the Grand Canal, histórical reenactments in St. Mark's Square, flower markets selling red rosebuds, and family gatherings with traditional meals.
Travel Inspiration
Planning a trip around St. Mark's Day? Explore our travel guides for destinations where this holiday is celebrated.
