By Wei Ruyu, compiled and reported
Ranked alongside Brazil's Rio de Janeiro and France's Nice as one of the "World's Three Great Carnivals," the Venice Carnival (Carnevale Venezia), also known as the "Mask Festival," will officially take place from February 11 to February 21 this year (2012). The area around St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco) is the most iconic celebration hub. From day to night, people dress in luxurious costumes, wear masks, and make dazzling appearances. As the organizers put it, “Life is Theatre, It’s Time to Get Masked!” Life is like a play — so put on a mask and join the festivities!
Venice Carnival costumes compete not only in extravagance but also in creativity. See who can put on the most spectacular performance!(Photo provided by VENEZIA MARKETING & EVENTI)
During the carnival, in addition to numerous fancy dress parades, balls, boat cruises, gambling games... the "Walking Theatre Show" and the "Venetian Casino Dinner Show" are particularly worth watching, offering a chance to learn about local historical stories.
The "Walking Theatre" originated in the mid-15th century when Venetian nobles, accompanied by lantern-bearing servants called "Codega," sought to satisfy their curiosity about ancient legends. Today, visitors to the Venice Carnival can follow in the footsteps of those nobles, led by storytellers as performances move along the streets, showcasing remnants of local legends. These theatre performances take place daily between 11:00 AM and 5:30 PM during the event, with a new show every half hour. As for the "Venetian Casino Dinner Show," you can enjoy an elegant and luxurious dinner and performance held in a refined Venetian casino, with ticket prices ranging from €190 to €250 per person depending on the date. Interested individuals can sign up online.
The "Venetian Casino Dinner Show" offers a glimpse into the indulgent lifestyle of the local upper class. (Photo provided by VENEZIA MARKETING & EVENTI)
During the carnival, many shops on the streets offer costumes and masks for visitors to dress up in, and there are also makeup artists who can do your face painting on the spot. So let loose and fully enjoy this grand and glamorous party!
Official website of the Venice Carnival: www.carnevale.venezia.it/index.php
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