The canal in Venice was filled with boaths and people in bright costumes that made it look like a scene out of a fantasy (Photo: AP)
The festival was inaugurated in 1979 but is said have its origins back in the 12th century (Photo: AP)
The carnival ends with the celebration of the Christian festival of Lent (Photo: AP)
The Carnival of Venice ending on Shrove Tuesday, Feb. 28, showcases street performances, contests and exhibitions, an annual tradition in this lagoon city (Photo: AP)
Venice carnival in the historical lagoon city attracts people from around the world (Photo: AP)
A moment of the the opening show during the Venice Carnival, in Venice, Italy (Photo: AP)
Masked women's stand in San Mark's square during the Venice Carnival (Photo: AP)
Performers participate in a boat procession opening the carnival celebrations on Rio de Cannaregio in Venice (Photo: AP)
