Text / Compiled and reported by the editorial team of MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network

Ranked alongside Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro and France’s Nice as one of the “World’s Three Great Carnivals,” the 2015 Italian Venice Carnival (Carnevale Venezia), also known as the “Mask Festival,” came to an end in mid-February. This splendid celebration is held annually around St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), the most iconic festive venue, where people dress in lavish costumes, wear masks, and revel in dazzling festivities from day to night.

The two-week-long Mask Carnival creates a fantastical ballroom atmosphere, transporting visitors back to the medieval era. Since 1162, to celebrate the victory in the Battle of Ulrico, festivities began in St. Mark’s Square in Venice. Over the years, the annual celebration gradually evolved into a carnival enjoyed by all. During this period, everyone dons elaborate masks to conceal their true identities, break free from social class constraints, and enjoy the festive joy.

During the Carnival, in addition to numerous fancy dress parades, balls, boat rides, gambling games…, highlights include the “Street Theater Performances” (Walking Theatre Show) and the “Venice Casino Dinner Show” (Casinò Burlesque), both of which are highly entertaining and offer insights into local history. During the Carnival, in addition to numerous fancy dress parades, balls, boat rides, gambling games…, highlights include the “Street Theater Performances” (Walking Theatre Show) and the “Venice Casino Dinner Show” (Casinò Burlesque), both of which are highly entertaining and offer insights into local history.

The 2016 Venice Mask Carnival will take place from January 23 to February 9. Everyone can start planning for this party in advance. During that time, many shops on the streets will offer costumes and masks for visitors to dress up in, and there will even be makeup artists available to help you get ready on the spot. All you have to do is enjoy this grand and fabulous party to the fullest.

 

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