They’re playing “A Carnival in Venice” on the radio, just to set the scene.
They’re working frantically on the Gran Teatro in Piazza San Marco, to have it ready for the big opening ceremony tomorrow (Saturday), at 11 am. The sound system works, I can tell you that from first hand experience! The big TV screen should be popular with those of us who will be watching from the crowded Piazza. Those lights on the boxes will look very attractive at night-time. They are putting out low tables and benches in the space in front of the Teatro, the ticket office is set to go, and so is the Gran Cafe.
Campo San Stefano looks a bit different today. A semi-circle of tents has sprung up around Sig. Tommaseo (el cagalibri). He looks somewhat bemused by what is happening. Well, actually, he always looks that way, come to think of it.
What's going on now?
Tomorrow, if you were so inclined, you could come to one of these tents to have your special Carnevale makeup applied by experts. It might be fun to come and watch the process and results.
Each tent displays one or more of the many popular characters you might see at Carnevale time.
It’s still very cold here, but despite that:
You really should be here!
PS This is a good webcam link to get some snapshot views of what is happening around San Marco: http://www.comune.venezia.it/flex/cm/pages/ServeBLOB.php/L/IT/IDPagina/42385
Hello World 
Piazza San Marco was a little bit crowded this afternoon! Everyone seemed to be having fun.
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I love all of it!
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Wish I was there! I think I’m going to take some inspiration from you and plan on staying in Venice for three months after I retire. For sure I want to be there during Carnivale!!!
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It certainly has been a worthwhile experience, Pat. The time has melted away. Carnevale is definitely party time! Bring warm clothes and an extra battery for your camera. Yes, I ran out of power today!
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Me too pat .. roll on retirement lol !! xx
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Ah wish i was still there (minus the cold) …would love to have seen the festivities…keep warm
xxx
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I can’t put on any more layers, Julie. That wind is like a knife.
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Ah Sig. Tommaseo, the guy who has trouble passing books. The excitement seems to be revving up for Carnevale. Keep us up to date please Yvonne.
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Andrew, you have a rare way with the words. I’ll go tell Sig. Tommaseo what you said. He may crack a grin.
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Ah, my dear Yvonne…always love a photo of you included. I’m with you in spirit. Looking forward to your pic from the grand opening.
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Now you’re putting on the pressure, too, Michelle!
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You really don’t have to tell me that I really should be there Yvonne…!!! I am, I will admit, rather envious of you having the chance to be there for Carnevale. Just the preparations look exciting. Can’t wait for our on-the-spot reporter to keep us informed. Happy weekend, and stay warm! (31c here today).
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Oh, the pressure, Al, the pressure. I’ll do my best for all of you.
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Oh Yvonne, if only. I am still pining away for Venezia and plotting my triumphant return.
Great photo of you, Venezia suits you!
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Wouldn’t it be wonderful to be able to whisk over here just for a few days, Susie?
There were signs of activity at the fruit and vegetable barge and shop near Campo San Barnaba the other day. I’ve heard rumours that there was a buyer, and the business will be back, just with new faces!
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It would be wonderful to see that business resurrected. Mark took some wonderful photos of their last night. Do let us know what you find out, Intrepid Reporter!
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I might not be here long enough, Susie, but I’ll bet someone like Fausto will let us know.
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Perhaps we might even hope for pleasanter owners? 🙂 I tried buying from the previous owners once and came away empty-handed, so never went back.
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The Gran Teatro looks wonderful. It was not part of the celebration 2 years ago when we were there, so I am guessing that for the folks who are able to attend Carnevale every year there is always something new to see.
And as always, another great photo of the “lady in red”!
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Hi, Barb. It really is an imposing structure. I wonder if they’ll take it all apart and store it for use in future years?
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what fun you must be having I am pea green with envy!
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Joanne, I wish it was just a few degrees warmer, with no wind. Today will be the beginning of all the fun and games.
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