There are several stories about the origins of the Venetian Carnevale, but many agree that it is a celebration in which Christians gorged themselves on indulgent foods in order to rid their cupboards of fare containing sugar and animal fats. This was done in preparation for the Christian Lenten Season when there was, and continues to be, different fasting practices as a sacrifice to God. Of course, we are able to recognize these traditions in other similar celebrations across the globe, including the very famous Mardi Gras and Brazilian Carnaval. Like many other Christian celebrations, the festival is also thought to have pre-Christian roots. Customs from the ancient Roman festivals of Saturnalia and Baccanalia may have been incorporated. As any other celebration that has been passed down through the ages and traveled across continents, you will likely evidence new transformations of these practices as people adapt them to their modern lives.
This Saturday, join several of the DC area's most prominent Italian language and culture groups to celebrate Festa Di Carnevale, DC style. Come see how this centuries old observance is being reshaped in one of the most international parts of the United States.
Festa di Carnevale is a costume party that will feature prizes for the best dressed! Entrance to the affair is a suggested donation of 15 dollars which includes light refreshments and a drink ticket. Also, enter for a chance to win two tickets to Puccini's Madama Butterfly at the Washington National Opera!
The masquerade will be held at the Friendship Heights Community Center, this Saturday, February 19th from 7PM - 11:30 PM. See the inset flyer for all the details.
We encourage CiaoDC viewers who attend the event to come back and comment on the blog post to let us know your thoughts. Also, as I am not an expert in Medieval history, feel free to share with me and other CiaoDC readers any information that you would like to add about the origins of the Venetian Carnevale. Grazie.
Link to some of the sponsoring organizations below for more information.
I'm very sorry I missed this event! I hope to see many of you at Carnevale DC on March 8! www.CarnevaleDC.com
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