The Carnevale of Venezia: A Reflection on This Year’s Festival & Origins

The Venice Carnival is a mystery to many outside of Italy yet offers an extraordinary captivating journey through time, enveloping participants in a world of mystery, extravagance, and revelry. Wandering through the winding streets of Venice, adorned with colorful banners, lights and bustling with excitement, one can't help but feel captivated by the enchanting atmosphere that surrounds this historic event.

The President of Venezia Unica and Vela Spa Piero Rosa Salva put it best, “For us Venetians, Carnival represents a re-enactment of the glorious history of Venice and an enhancement of the uniqueness of our city, in fact the Carnival in Venice is not a "show" to see but an "experience" to live. During the Carnival period which always ends on "Fat Tuesday" before the start of "Lent", the whole city is transformed into an extraordinary stage where everyone is a protagonist and not a spectator.”

Its history is rich and vibrant and today we see many other Carnival celebrations all over the world but it's important to note that this festival originated in Venice dating back to the 11th century. The carnival emerged as a period of joyous celebration leading up to Lent, a time when Venetians cast aside their everyday identities and embraced the freedom of anonymity and social classes behind elaborate masks and costumes. Over the centuries, the carnival evolved into a grand spectacle of opulence and creativity, attracting nobility, merchants, and artists from across Europe to partake in its festivities.

Delving deeper into the heart of the carnival, one is transported to the "Golden Age" of Venice, the 18th century, when the city was at the height of its splendor. Elaborate masquerade balls held in majestic palaces, masked parties in the campi, and grand processions along the city's canals filled the streets with music, laughter, and extravagance. It's a scene straight out of a fairy tale, where reality blurs with fantasy, and every corner holds the promise of adventure and delight.

But the Carnival is not just a journey into the past; it's a living, breathing celebration that continues to thrive in the modern world. A Venetian knows that Carnival is approaching when the first frittelle (sweet fried pastries) are out on the bakeries’ shelves. Kids are out of school, waiting to dress up and throw confetti all over the streets, but only one thing symbolizes the official start of it all: Il Volo dell’Angelo. The most iconic event which fills up Saint Mark’s Square with people from all over the globe, who are then struck by the timeless allure of the carnival, where traditions mingle seamlessly with contemporary expressions of creativity and joy. From the intricate masks and costumes that adorn the faces of participants to the lively street performances, art exhibitions, and culinary delights that fill the city, the Carnival is a testament to the enduring spirit of celebration that defines the Venetian way of life.

Numerous events take place all over the Venetian municipality in the span of the two and half weeks of Carnival. From water and street parades to exhibitions, concerts, and galas, one is spoiled for choice. Each year is characterized by a theme connected with Venice’s tradition, its citizens, and its history. For instance, this year’s theme was Marco Polo’s journey to the East, which correlated with the Chinese New Year on February 10. The last day of the Carnival is always Martedì Grasso (Shrove Tuesday / Mardi Gras). It originates from the tradition of indulging in rich, fatty foods before the fasting period of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, which marks the start of the Christian season of Lent leading up to Easter. The entire day is filled with events, with the main one being a show on the main stage in Saint Mark’s Square.

The Carnival in Venice always has a very complex program which includes shows in theaters, in open spaces and also on the water of the canals and lagoon but is characterized above all by the spontaneous performances of people (Venetian or tourists) who dress up and they perform while walking around the city.

The Venice Carnival is more than just a festival; it's a celebration of life itself, a reminder to embrace the beauty, the joy, and the magic that surrounds us every day. It is a world-renowned celebration that encompasses Venice, its people, its history, and its traditions. When asking Mr. Rosa Salva, what Carnevale traditions are his favorites?

“Personally, I am particularly moved by events on water, perhaps because they represent the essence of Venetianness: our existential relationship with the water that surrounds Venice and has always been our "protector" like the walls for other cities. But I am also very fond of events for children which, with their joyful liveliness, give a sign of hope for the future.”