Venice Carnival begins in style

It is carnival time in Venice – and for flamboyant dressers, it is heaven on earth!

Wigged, costumed and masked, visitors from all over the world have come to celebrate a centuries-old tradition in one of the most beautiful cities on earth.

For many, it is a time to forget global and personal tensions, and take a breath of fresh air.

Its starting #VeniceCarnival2017 - check full guide in Dove Come Quando Italiahttps://t.co/5jNudqh0w1#Venice#Venezia#Italie#dcqitaliapic.twitter.com/jevQFv1MH7

— DCQItalia (@dcq_italia) 11 de fevereiro de 2017

“We have come to have fun, to experience some joy in this particular moment,” said carnival-goer Mauro Liotto.

“It is only right to let oneself go!”

When nightfall came on Saturday, a spectacular water show on the canals of Venice got the festivities officially underway.

Come #celebrate the Queen of the #Sea and join the water #parade! #VeniceCarnival2017@CoronaTeatro@veneziaunica@comunevenezia@mmaccapanipic.twitter.com/3dfwwdnMgs

— Carnevale di Venezia (@Venice_Carnival) 11 février 2017

Revived over recent decades and now held amid tight security, this year’s extravaganza continues until February 28.