Bucket list experience:
Venice, Veneto, Italy
Dating back almost a thousand years, the Venetian Carnival (or Carnevale) is a two-week estravanganza of dressing up, partying and posing enjoyed by Venetians and tourists alike.
Carnevale enjoyed its heyday in the 18th century when it became popular as a pagan festival. It was revived in the 1970s when the city administrators realised it could still draw the crowds (and bring in the cash), and it worked; today tens of thousands flock to the city each year from round the world for the spectacle.
For two weeks in February each year, the streets of Venice fill with people wearing masks and elaborate masquerade costumes. The original purpose of the costumes and masks is thought to have originally been to hide the wearer’s identity, removing social differences and allowing them to engage is less reputable practices.
A whole program of varied events take place throughout the city – details are posted on the website – and include the famous ‘masked balls’, held in elaborate palazzos. Anyone can go – you can buy tickets on the website – but mask is mandatory, and usually a costume too. Aside from masks, expect jugglers, fire-eaters, dancers and live music. The Doge’s Ball is the most exclusive and dazzling event.
It’s free to wander around the city and gawp at the costumed revellers, better still if you are in costume, or at least sport a mask (buying a mask is the cheapest way to join the fun). Professional posers mainly flaunt their finery in tourist hot spots such as Saint Mark’s Square (note – it can get jam-packed at weekends during Carnevale). If you want go to a ball, there is a hefty price tag attached. The official Dinner Show costs €500 plus costume hire. Buy tickets for the Dinner Show and the masked balls from the website.
The website also has information about costume hire, but for a more authentic and personalised experience, contact one of the costume ateliers that also organise carnival events and hire costumes. Try Atelier Pietro Longhi or Nicola Atelier.
The dates vary according to when Easter falls, but the main events, and major poncing around, happen on Shrove Tuesday (Mardi Gras or Martedì Grasso) and the two preceding weekends.
Venice, Veneto, Italy
Although Carnevale falls in February/March, you can learn to make your own Venetian Carnival masks year-round at one of several workshops in the city. Experienced artisans teach the art of papier-maché mask making and decorating in traditional Venetian style. Great for kids and adults alike.
Best for ages: 6+ | £42 | 1 hour
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