The Grand Canal and Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute in Venice, Italy

© Jim Richardson/Offset by Shutterstoc

Venice by night

In Venice, Italy, the third Sunday in July is known as 'Festa del Redentore' (The Redeemer's Feast), which commemorates the city's salvation from the plague in the 16th century. As Italy still reels from being hard hit by the new coronavirus, the holiday is particularly poignant this year. It traditionally features a fireworks display, a regatta, and a temporary bridge that connects the Zattere promenade to the Church of the Redeemer on the island of Giudecca. While this year's celebration will look different due to COVID-19, it will still be an important and festive day for Venetians.