In the historical Maritime Republic of Venice, Carnival represents a very special festivity, dedicated to artistic traditions and creativity. Over the last few years, people’s participation has increased, adding popular and folkloristic touches to the lavish celebrations and shows held in Piazza San Marco.
The bitter cold at this time of the year doesn’t make any difference: Carnival must be enjoyed outdoor.
The grand opening of this 2015 edition featured a symbolic boat parade, with members of the City’s rowing societies wearing masks instead of their colors and banners.
Despite a threaten of high-water and heavy rain, a fleet of typical boats and almost 500 rowers showed up on the first Sunday of “The world’s most delicious festival” – as the 2015 Carnival of Venice has been called. A performance by pianist from Padua Paolo Zanarella, flying on a platform over the Canal Grande, opened the parade.
From Punta della Dogana, near Piazza San Marco, the masked rowers headed to the Church of San Marcuola and then, instead of moving forward towards St. Lucia Station, turned right in the Cannaregio Canal for a little show, lifting their paddles in the air and greeting the bystanders.
Special guest of the day was a huge rat, which used to sail along the Canal in the past years and is now carried in triumph as a doge. Everybody was staring at him, while the organizers announced a big surprise.
After a few minutes, as soon as the boats lined up in the water, a colourful smoke came out from the rat and officially marked the beginning of the celebrations. Confetti and streamers were thrown from nearby houses and buildings, and the crowd flooded in the food court featuring complimentary local products and delicacies.
Among them were seasonal dishes, like the famous pasta with beans and eggplant pie, accompanied by a taste of wine to warm up the spirit and stir up the romance. What a shame would have been not to enjoy also the sweet pastries and frittelle, which ranged from the regular ones with batter, raisin, and pine nuts to those filled with custard or zabaglione.
Of course, the turnout of locals and tourists wasn’t comparable to the public on Mardì Gras, yet it was remarkable especially between the Tre Archi and Guglie bridges. Everybody was walking around while eating or drinking, a confirmation that – no matter if sweet or savory – it was impossible to resist the temptation. The tasty will of the Carnival of Venice be done.
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