Travelscoop

The city of Rome, which last staged an annual Carnival in the eighth century, plans gala celebrations 6-16 February with more that 30 events, including fireworks, equestrian shows and a parade featuring floats and 'butteri' — Italy's original cowboys on horseback. The decision was taken to revive the ancient tradition after the success of a short dry run of the Carnival last year, which pulled around 200,000 spectators.

AFP reports that Rome is at pains not to upstage the world-famous Venice Carnival, and intends “twinning” the events, with Venetian artists taking part in Rome festivities and Venice's Fenice opera house to perform the overture of Rome's opera season. Rome's Carnival will also include performances by street artists, exhibits, events for children and musical costume parties at the Galleria Sordi shopping mall in the city centre.

A Valentine's Day highlight will be a parade with performers from several Latin American countries in Piazza Venezia on 14 February.

The vast Piazza del Popolo will also host a 'cultural village' and equestrian shows as well as a concert and fireworks for the grand finale on 16 february.

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