Are you ready to experience the ultimate celebration of culture and creativity? Look no further than Carnevale in Italy! This year (2023), it will be celebrated from February 4th to 21st.
History of Carnevale
Carnevale has a long history in Italy, dating back to ancient Roman times. In the past, it was a time of celebration and revelry, marked by feasting and drinking. It was a time when people could seek refuge from their everyday lives and indulge in some fun before the start of the season of Lent.
Over the centuries, Carnevale has evolved and taken on many different forms. In the Middle Ages, Carnevale was still a time of fun and libertinism, with parades, masks, and feasts. In the Renaissance, Carnevale became a more refined and sophisticated event, with masked balls and elegant costume parties.
Today, Carnevale is celebrated in many different ways in Italy, with the most famous traditions taking place in Venice and Viareggio.
Where & How to Celebrate
During Carnevale, people dress up in elaborate costumes and masks and participate in parades, parties, and other celebrations. They throw multicolored “coriandoli”, which are small pieces of paper, mylar, or metallic material.
Fun fact: Americans would likely recognize these as “confetti”, but in reality this Italian word refers to sugar-coated almonds that are also used on special occasions!
The streets are alive with music and dancing, and the atmosphere is electric. In Venice, the main event is the big parade of boats called the “Festa Veneziana,” which takes place on the Grand Canal. These boats are true works of art, featuring intricate designs and stunningly detailed sculptures. Another Venetian tradition is the “Flight of the Angel”, where the “Maria”, a chosen local girl who will be the guest of honor of the celebrations, will “fly” from the bell tower of St. Mark’s Cathedral down to the square, dressed as an angel to bless the attendees.
In Viareggio, the main event is the “Corteo dei Carri,” a parade of giant, mechanically animated floats that are made of papier-mache. These floats are truly a sight to behold, and they draw huge crowds of spectators: their content is often satirical, with funny references to famous people in local and international politics and society.
But Carnevale isn’t just about the parades and pageantry. It’s also a time for people to come together and celebrate with music, dancing, and food. The streets are filled with stalls offering a wide variety of traditional Italian treats, such as fried pastries, gelato, and roasted nuts. Of course, no celebration in Italy would be complete without a little bit of wine and prosecco to help get the party started!
If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience, make sure to put Carnevale in Italy on your bucket list. Trust us; you won’t be disappointed!
