Gennaio de’ gatti, Febbraio de’ matti !
The old Tuscan proverb “Gennaio de’ gatti, febbraio de’ matti” refers first to amorous cats who howl all day and night throughout the month of January and then to the crazy nature of February.
Carnevale, Carnival, usually falls in February, and thus, in the pleasantest way, all hell breaks loose in February.
This year’s Carnevale began yesterday and ends with martedi grasso, Mardi Gras, on February 16.
Celebrations are radically toned down, or are cancelled. Carnevale costumes are in the closet. The smaller regional celebrations, some with very unusual events and influences — the ones I like most, and often included in your travels — are shelved till next year.
No citrus fruit-throwing in 2021 in the center of Ivrea. This is a particularly interesting Carnival, best known for the spectacular Battle of the Oranges, and unfolds over three days in the city’s main squares.
It includes a complicated ceremony that incorporates various eras; it culminates in a delicious historical parade.
Postponed till 2022 is one of the most famous celebrations in the world, in Venice, where Carnevale events and entertainment take place for two full weeks. Celebrants in costume wander and revel in every sestiere, or quarter, of Venice.
Look at our pictures from our most recent trip : what a wonder ! May we talk about Carnevale 2022 with you now ?
There is nevertheless cause for small celebrations. Most of Italy is now back into the “yellow zone” meaning the risk of contagion is considered moderate. In yellow zones, all shops are open, and joyfully bars and restaurants can serve until 6 PM. A night curfew kicking in 10 PM remains in force throughout the nation. In yellow zones, museums, archeological sites and galleries may open again from Monday to Friday.
All to say, we move a step in the right direction.
On that subject, Valentines Day is coming up. Why not give yourself — or someone you love — the gift of personalized travel planning for Italy ? Gift certificates are just one click away. Our survey can be in your hands in seconds and we promise to be back to you in one day with our first set of no-obligation ideas.
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And now I am off to collect my Carnevale pastries !
