Carnevale di Venezia

This weekend I headed east to celebrate the ancient festival of the Carnival of Venice. Carnevale only occurs for a few days annually, so when I realized that I would be abroad during this time I knew for sure that I would have to go and be a part of the tradition. Even though the weather was cold and rainy everyone was still gathered in the streets wearing their masks and costumes, and participating in the activities in the Piazza San Marco. People were standing on the balcony of San Marcos Basilica and a crowd filled the center as we all watched the activities and concerts occurring in every corner of the square. The energy was indescribable. All of the stores surrounding Piazza San Marco and Via Garibaldi were bursting with bright masks for sale and hand blown glass that is made by the Venetian island of Murano that is known for being “the glass island”. The city surrounded by sea is constructed like a maze that I believe only the creators could ever understand and remember. The small alleyways all look identical and the city is pretty large considering the only means of travel are by foot and boat. God bless Google Maps. After doing some research about the traditions and stories behind the Carnevale di Venezia it made my experience feel even more important and monumental. I am hoping that in the future I can return with my family so they can turn my pictures into reality and see how incredible the city and festival really is.