As children, we revel in a world of make-believe evoked through the fairytales of books and movies. With time, these fade into oblivion as the real world surfaces and drowns us with experiences of the adult world. There comes a moment, however, when our childhood dreams resurface and our inner child is let loose during an event that is nothing short of extravagant: the annual Carnevale di Venezia.

If you have ever dreamt of impersonating another character within a backdrop as magical as Venice, then this festival is for you. Kicking off on 13 February and running until 24 February, participants will be able to masquerade their inner selves behind lavish costumes and masks. With parades in St. Mark’s Square, endless carnivals, and gondola rides complete with masked gondoliers, the days ahead promise to be filled with magical excitement for all. However, the true highlight of this 11-day festival will be the night parties and masquerade balls that will take place beneath starry skies throughout the city. 

Although countless of events will take place across town, one place that is worth attending is the Pisani Moretta Palace, which will hold its annual Mascheranda candlelit dinner and masked ball on 22 February. With live music, dancers, and a costume and mask dress code, this magnificent palazzo and its 18th century frescos will provide an enchanting setting to this glittering affair. Another ball that is infamous for its themes and music is the Gran Cavalchina ball at the Fenice Opera House, which is set to take place on 21 February. This year, the theme is that of Impossible Love, and the entire venue will host masked dancers from across the world who will be dancing to the beats of everything from the Charleston to contemporary music, along with international DJs and a live orchestra.

The Carnevale di Venezia, once outlawed by the fascist government during World War II, dates back to the late 13th century and is one of the most anticipated festivals in Italy. The glorious masks worn are a  key feature, as they take participants back to the Venice of hundreds of years ago, when these intriguing accessories were often worn at banquets and celebrations throughout the year.

So abandon your inhibitions, close your eyes and fly into the arms of Venice and its Carnevale. Here, anything and everything is possible.

Image courtesy of Alaskan Dude