The Venice Carnival started with enthusiasm this year with a colorful parade. The event held on the Grand Canal provided a visual feast to the spectators with the passage of over 100 gondolas and boats. Thousands of people attended the opening ceremony, which took place amidst a confetti shower. It is expected that 3 million people will attend the carnival this year. The Venice Carnival began with a colorful parade held on the Grand Canal. The theme of this year’s carnival was “Casanova Time” in honor of the famous Venetian adventurer and writer Giacomo Casanova’s 300th birthday. The event received great interest with its theme shedding light on Venice’s history and culture. During the grand gala, awards were given to the top three teams with the best costumes and the most beautifully adorned gondola. The team with the bee costume stood out and won first place.