(click on pictures to enlarge)

 Italian Holidays:  Carnevale

 Carnival, or carnevale, is a winter tradition of Italian
 Catholic origins. Originally a wild costume festival held
 the day before Lent, carnevale means "to take away the
 meat", signifying a historic abstinence from meat during the
 ensuing forty-day period. Contemporary Italian celebrations
 include fabulous parades, dances, concerts, and parties.
 Events are typically held in February or early March.
 Carnival represents an ideal time to travel in Italy and
 savor a truly unique cultural experience.

* Note: For more information go to In Italy.com or 

click on:  Local Festivals and Events , this will show all of the Carnevales 

by Regions, in Italy, Sicily and in Sardinia.