Venice Carnival 2026 Commences

The Venice Carnival 2026 commenced on Sunday. The opening featured a traditional procession of boats and floats through the city's canals.

A giant paper-mâché rat, known as 'Pantegana,' which is a long-standing symbol of the carnival, led the procession.

This two-week festival attracts international tourists and incorporates elements of dance, costumes, and music.

The event traditionally precedes Lent, a Christian observance involving 40 days of fasting prior to Easter.