The Viareggio Carnevale in Tuscany is being held until March 4th. The event is held every year and is one of the most popular carnivals held in Italy. There are several Carnevales that take place in Tuscany, but the one in Viareggio is by far the most famous.

History
The Viareggio Carnevale first started in 1873. Several wealthy men thought it would be a good idea to have a parade that had floats that were decorated with flowers. Some of the local residents did not like this idea because of they would be forced to pay higher taxes in order to fund the event. They showed their protest by wearing masks. Between the floats and the masks the whole event turned out to be a carnival that gained popularity each year. Starting in 1883 during the parade portion of the events one float was chosen to be the winning float based on its overall design. The first float to win this prestigious honor was the IQuattro Mori. It was made to look like the Livorno statue. To this day participants make lavish floats every year in order to try to win the float competition.

Things To Do
There are 4 parades that take place throughout the Carnevale month. Residents and even some visitors will take part in the events by making a costume and mask to wear. The parades are held on February 16, 23 and March 2 at 3 p.m. and on March 4 at 2:50 p.m. In addition to dressing up or watching the floats decorated with papier-m�¢ch�© there are lavish feasts to take part in or concerts to enjoy. There are also a lot of other things to do in Tuscany such as visiting a museum, taking an art or cooking class or visiting the Leaning Tower Of Piza.

Mascot
The mascot of the Viareggio Carnevale in Tuscany is the Burlamacco. It kind of looks like a bull and an angry human combined. It is dressed in a white and red checkered suit, hat and black cape.

Getting There
Viareggio is easiest to reach by train because the large amount of people attending the Carnevale may make it hard to drive through the city. The train station is only about a 15 minute walk to the parade.

Viareggio Carnevale is one of the most anticipated yearly events in Tuscany. Now is a great time to book a vacation there. Tuscany is a beautiful destination spot and the locals are welcoming to its visitors.

Carnival of Venice

The Carnival of Venice is one of Veniceâ??s most laidback festivals which is said to have started as far back as 1162. Thousands of people visit this city each year just to take part in Carnival of Venice. During this festival, many individuals wear costumes and intricate masks to celebrate. Itâ??s just a fun time to let go and be playful with one another. Thereâ??s music and dancing that can last throughout the night. This year the festival will take place from February 22 through March 4.

Masks have always been a main feature of the Venetian carnival.  There are sveral types of masks including the Bauta, Columbia, Medico della peste (easily recognized with its long beak,) Moretta and several others.