How to describe Venice’s Carnivale is like a high class Halloween party. The costumes are elegant , people pause with patience to pose for photos, and the crowd is calm. I am sure there are expensive after parties to attend, but several hours here was perfect. Strangers share smiles and offer advice. As we looked into a restaurant’s window , a patron waved her finger NO informing us the food was bad . We listened .
As we rode the water taxi from Murano to Venice, people initially stared . My friend and I appeared to be the only ones dressed up .
I had been informed staring was normal . I accepted it. As the ride continued , and we neared Venice . People began pulling out the masks they had purchased from earlier in the day. A 50 something Sardinian woman next to us told us her and her sister and sister in law come every year for Carnivale . They leave their husbands at home and bond so they can shop and explore Venice guilt free . I can see why people want to return, year after year.
The vibe is a tame party. It could get out of control easily. This place is more about parading around with pride in your costumes, sharing it with other citizens. For a moment during the concert in the San Marco Plaza, all seem united as “we are family” was sung to a sea of masked faces. We are family and all momentarily connected .
It feels as if you are in a dream. The beautiful mysterious faces set in the romantic environment of Venice . My friend said it was as if we were all part of one big play acting different parts.
Isn’t that what we are in life? What part are you playing today?
It Only Takes A Smile 