The festival originally began as part of a religious practice, but today it is celebrated by many people, even those who are not familiar with its religious origins.
The tradition is connected to the social environment of the city or nation where it is celebrated. In Italy, the most famous Carnevale events take place in Venice, where people wear elaborate and luxurious costumes that reflect the city’s rich history as an important merchant trading port.
Viareggio, another town in Italy, celebrates Carnevale with giant floats and large street parties. The costumes there are also very elaborate, but this year many had political themes, and some were very comical.
