How are you going to celebrate Carnival? Will 

you dress up? Will you take part in a parade?

Carnival is a popular winter festival beloved by all. In some cities it lasts up to eighteen days. Originally, the word Carnival meant “goodbye to meat” because this is what some Christians did to prepare for Easter, they would forsake meat. 

But it seems Christianity is not its true origin. This dates back to Ancient Rome. Historians believe that the tradiitonal festivals of that time became the inspiration for carnival when Christianity became a religion. 

The Venice carnival is very popular with tourists. People from all around the world visit the city at carnival time. The carnival opens with a traditional boat parade.

Events during the festival include a a big feast known as the King's Banquet , and formal parties called Grand Balls. People dress up in beautiful historical costumes for the carnival. They wear cloaks and hide their faces behind hand painted masks.  

Would you like to learn about the traditions followed in other cities during this time? Read tomorrow's entry about Mardi Gras or the carnival in New Orleans.