Carnival of Venice

I have always been fascinated by the Carnival of Venice, it is a long standing tradition which is filled with beauty and luxurious costuming, as well as some of the most spectacular masks of their kind in the world.
Sadly for this year I have missed it, but next year I will absolutely be attending.

The carnival runs around the Lent period, which can get a little confusing since the dates change from year to year... It starts two Fridays before Ash Wednesday and ends the day before Ash Wednesday.

If you are unfamiliar with Lent, it is basically a period where no rich foods should be eaten and no parties or celebrations should take place, it comes from Christianity and was generally to remind people that they do not need such luxuries.

Carnival was basically born out of this, as a way to use all of the foods up, and also to give the community one fantastic party before Lent began.

This is one party which epitomizes everything I love, it has community, amazing outfits, history, passion, and excitement.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carnival_of_Venice

http://www.twilightblue.eu/en/articles/carnival-venice.aspx