One of the biggest events to occur in Venice each year is the Carnevale di Venezia. More than 3 million people are expected to be in attendance at the Carnival of Venice. Not only do attendees look forward to the events and festivities that take place, but the elaborate costumes as well. To fully immerse yourself in the experience you must first understand the history behind it and the significance of the costumes.
The word Carnevale means “farewell to meat,” which is the abstinence from eating meat during Lent.
History Behind the Carnival of Venice
The first Carnivale occurred in 1162. It was to recognize Venice’s history of being victorious in its previous battles. Carnevale di Venezia wasn’t officially declared an event for well over 100 years. In 1797 when Napoleon invaded Venice, it squashed locals wanting to celebrate Carnevale for many years. Citizens gathered in Piazza San Marco to dance and celebrate the republic’s victory over the Patriarch of Aquieia. It wasn’t until 1979 that the lively festivities were brought back in full swing as a way to get more people to visit Venice. Today, the twelve days of activities occur during the Carnevale di Venezia. Masks became a part of Carnevale tradition during the 15th Century. Masks facilitated the leveling of class distinction. Residents wearing masks march through the streets and jousts and similar other tournaments are held as well. You will often see puppet shows, acrobats, musicians and magicians in San Marco square. There’s even a ball that everyone can attend as long as they are wearing a mask and a costume. During this 12 day event there’s also quite a few theatrical and musical performances that take place throughout the city. There’s also a boat and gondola procession that goes down the Grand Canal. Each vessel is decorated lavishly for the Carnevale. Most of these events are free for visitors to attend.
Activities That Take Place during the Carnival of Venice
Twelve days of activities occur during the Carnevale di Venezia. Residents wearing masks march through the streets and jousts and similar other tournaments are held as well. You will often see puppet shows, acrobats, musicians and magicians in San Marco square. There’s even a ball that everyone can attend as long as they are wearing a mask and a costume. During this 12 day event there’s also quite a few theatrical and musical performances that take place throughout the city. There’s also a boat and gondola procession that goes down the Grand Canal. Each vessel is decorated lavishly for the Carnevale. Most of these events are free for visitors to attend.
What To Wear to the Carnival of Venice
The costumes worn during Carnevale di Venezia are similar to those worn during the baroque period. They consist of flowing dress and cloaks. The more frills and details the better. Masks are also a requirement. Some individuals choose to just buy cheap ones while others make their masks and put a lot of time and money into them. The masks represent individuals covering up who they are and being able to just have fun without others knowing who they are and judging them.
There are several types of masks, originally different occupations wore different masks. The Bauta for example is all white and has a long chin. This was so that the person wearing it could still eat or drink comfortably without removing the mask. It was usually worn by men with a long black cape. Interestingly enough, the masks were also required to be worn by politicians during decision making so that they could not see one another’s facial expressions and influence a vote. The Colombina is one of the most popular shapes today. It is a half mask covering around the eyes, the nose and upper cheeks which comes in what seems to be an endless variety of colors. The Jolly is similar to a jester’s hat. These masks are often made of velvet and have elaborate decorations. One that will catch your attention right away is the Zanni. This mask has a very long, nose which looks like a bird’s beak. This mask was initially designed to help prevent the spread of diseases during the time of the plague.
Booking a trip to the Venice Carnival
Carnevale di Venezia is one of the liveliest festivals that takes place in Venice, Italy. Plan early to be part of the Carnival festivities. Getting hotel availability is difficult during this time frame unless you plan in advance, but there are escorted Italy tours that visit Venice during the Carnival.
Purchasing or Making Your Costume
Carnivale costumes tend to be elaborately made. Professional costume makers usually start by drawing a number of sketches. They then send them to a tailor who makes the fabric portions of it. Then, after any modifications are made, embellishments like sequins, ribbons and bows are added. Because of all the work that goes into them, costumes can cost thousands of dollars. If you do not want to spend that much on a costume for this event, there are a number of shops in the area where you can rent them.
Some of the more popular costume shops include:
-Tragicomica, Calle dei Nomboli 2800, San Polo, 0039 041 721 102
-Papier Maché, Calle lunga Santa Maria Formosa 5174B, Castello, 0039 041 522 9995
-Ca’ Macanà, Calle delle Botteghe 3172, Dorsoduro 0039 041 277 6142
Getting Around Venice
Cars are not allowed in Venice. The easiest way to get around in the city is by walking or utilizing a water taxi. All of the events that are taking place during the Carnevale di Venezia are easily accessible by foot and due to the large number of crowds, they aren’t that hard to find.
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