The circus performances, under the theme ‘Lights, Camera, Action’, are inspired by the work of Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini.
The flotilla featured tightrope walkers, fire eaters, boats and animal floats to the backdrop of music from Fellini’s films.
Circus performers hold up barbells and breathe fire as part of Venice Carnivale celebrations Source: Twitter/Carnivale di Venezia
However, celebrations were marred by reports of thousands stranded outside the gates along the banks of the canal.
According to local paper 'La Nuova Venezia', police restricted entry to the Cannaregio Canal. It is part of a push by authorities to restrict the crowd size to 11,000 people, citing public safety concerns.
People blocked from entering the Ponte Del Ghetto gate. Source: La Nuova Venezia
More tourists are expected to arrive in the city as festivities ramp up. The celebration of the Angel’s Flight in Saint Mark’s Square, a major festival event that takes place next Sunday, has in recent years drawn crowds of over 80,000 people.
Running from January 27 to February 13, the Carnevale di Venezia is among the oldest carnivals around the world.
The annual festival takes place ten days before the Catholic celebration of Lent, a period of fasting and religious observance.
