Experience the magic of Carnevale

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Allie Delury
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  In a city that once hosted kings and queens, tourists from all over the world often gather in Venice to marvel at its historical relevance and iconic location. Within each alleyway, stores selling masks and Venetian gifts give tourists a glimpse into the luster that once surrounded the city in the 16th century, and the culture that continues to enrich the local area in the 21st century.

From Feb. 15 - Mar. 4, 2014, Venice comes alive with elaborate costumes, masks and an international audience for a festival known as Carnevale. Many tourists who frequent the city during the year may be aware of Carnevale and its significance, but few actually get to experience it.

Carnevale di Venezia (Carnival of Venice) is held annually in Venice to celebrate the days leading up to Lent. Although other countries may also celebrate the occasion, often referred to as "Mardi Gras," Venice holds the crown for their prestigious celebration involving costumes and masks. Although it is unknown exactly when the mask-wearing culture infiltrated Venice, locals and tourists alike spend the year shopping for the perfect mask, whether it's one that covers the entire face, one that covers just the eyes, or even a long-beaked "Plague Doctor" mask. The masks are often decorated with feathers, glitter and glass accessories which are sold year-round in the various shops throughout the city.

Tourists have one of two ways of celebrating Carnevale: through the eyes of royalty, or through a more modern, low-key perspective.

If you aren't afraid to drop a little more money for a night resembling high school prom, there are costume shops near San Marco square that sell detailed dresses similar to what was worn in the early 18th century. After donning the dress and sporting elaborate hairstyles (or wearing a white wig and suit if you're male), tourists who choose this route are typically stopped by gawking tourists for photos during the day before hopping a water taxi to a private party or grand ball at night. Tickets for the balls range from around 200-500 euro and last approximately 3-4 hours. Themes of the various balls will differ, but most may include: dinner, dancing, a live orchestra, theatre shows, acrobat shows, and more.

For a cheaper route, tourists can arrive in Venice during the day to experience shows, parades, and concerts in San Marco Square--which is packed with hundreds of people and a large stage. Depending on the day, children-friendly shows and costume contests are also available in the square and throughout various parts of the city.

Regardless of how you choose to explore Carnevale, the atmosphere that engulfs the modest city is unlike anything you can experience in the U.S. The history behind the Venetian masks and royal attire is enough to make anyone trade in the 21st Century lifestyle for a few days of the world-renowned, 16th Century Venetian celebration. By attending Carnevale, you not only get to see how Venice looked during the city's glory years, you also get to experience the nostalgia of royalty and festivities that brings the historical city to life--a side of Venice that can only be seen once a year.