By: Maria Libera Vallone
As Mardì Gras draws near those of you who are preparing for the Lenten season may be lucky enough to celebrate Fat Tuesday, or Carnival, in different parts of the world. In the States the biggest Mardì Gras is in New Orleans. In South America most head to Rio, but in Italy the most famous and elegant one is in Venice. Carnevale is the last day for merriment before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of fasting for 40 days of Lent leading up to the religious Christian holiday of Easter.
I was so fortunate to spend three different years at Carnevale in Venezia, two with my sister Sara, following this marvelous event and photographing the most amazing masked-costumed people on earth.
Since Carnival in Venice celebrates the mystery and enchantment of Mardì Gras, one has to literally chase most of the masked groups of people around St. Mark’s Square to get a photo. And you must be quick. These beautifully masked participants, most of them art students who design and make their own masks and costumes, don’t wait for you. If they decide to move at a moment’s notice you have to chase them down for a second chance at a photo…..and they never speak!!! But it’s all worth it!!!
Masks are sold throughout the mazed city of Venice and the shop windows are extravagant. I bought my sister a mask at our first Carnevale and still have it hanging in my home today.
In Venice there is no age limit for who dresses up. Little children can be seen in their costumes along with their grandparents and elders.
I would be interested in hearing how many of you celebrate Carnevale in some way. I’d also love to see your photos. If you haven’t, I hope I have brought some color and Thasc magic into your lives today.
Until Thursday, Buon Carnevale!!!!! Happy MardìGras!!!!!!
-Maria
THASC is a unique small American business producing cards and other promotional products.
www.thasc.com
Precious Art By Precious People 
Maria,
It looked like Venice is really nice. I myself have never been, it looks like fun. I don’t know much about carnevale in venezia or Mardin gras, but l do celebrate Lent. It looks like you and your sister was having a great time, nice pics.
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Dear Dana,
Knowing how you love to have a good time and celebrate, this is the Master of all celebrations just before Lent.
I hope you get to see this one day. I can already hear you singing!!!!
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I’m excited for Chris and his girlfriend Alex to visit Venezia during Carnivale! What an amazing experience. Wish I could jump in their suitcase and go with them. I imagine this is one of your fondest memories with Sara!
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Definitely is, Pam… I can never go back without thinking of her and her camera. She took magnificent photos.
Chris and Alex will have the time of their lives. It’s so magical that you forget where you are! Can’t wait to hear their stories!!!!
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Maria, I will never forget my visit to Venice for Carnevale! And it was with you and your sister Sara! Thank you for taking a bunch of teenagers to Italy. Having been a high school teacher myself now, I realize how brave that was! My mom still has a photo of me that Sara took up in her house. Great memories of such a beautiful time to are Venezia!
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Dear Julia, as Carnevale draws near, I have fond memories of our trip there with my sister. You are sooooo welcome for me taking you. In fact I think you are the only one who has ever thanked me this way. You are and always will be a sweet, caring young lady….sharp as they come… I’ll never forget you and you too touched my life . Many people over the years commented on how crazy I must have been to travel with teenagers, but truthfully, you kids were my reason for being. I’d love to see the photo Sara took of you. If you can, send it to me. LOve, Prof.a
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Fabulous! Italians sure know how to party!
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Maureen, you would love Carnevale! Put it on your bucket list!!!!
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