Locals and tourists alike flocked to Venice's Saint Mark's Square on Saturday to celebrate the start of the city's world-famous carnival. Festivities officially kick off Sunday, but many could resist showing off their costumes early.
"This is extraordinary, especially for those who live around here. You have to enjoy it, to be there evey year. For us who live here, it's almost an obligation," said one resident.
"It's the party of the year," said another.
In Venice, wigs and masks can be bought on the cheap from street vendors, but can cost up to several thousand euros when purchased from exclusive costume makers. A popular alternative is simply to rent a costume for the party.
Heavy snow has caused flooding in many parts of the city, so this year the elaborate costumes, capes and masks are being paired with rubber boots.
The Venice Carnival usually starts about two weeks before its traditional ending on Shrove Tuesday (Fat Tuesday, or Martedì Grasso), a day before Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent.
