The 73rd Venice International Film Festival just wrapped up in the floating city. The event was held at Venice Lido, from August 31 until September 10, 2016. Organized by La Biennale di Venezia and directed by Alberto Barbera, the aim of the festival was to raise awareness and promote international cinema in all its forms: as art, entertainment, and industry; in a spirit of open dialogue and freedom.

This week’s Italian Concierge blog was inspired by a recent trip to Venice. During the winter months, the streets of Venice are still filled with tourists and merrymakers alike, who brave the outdoors despite low temperatures and misty skies. A popular way to warm up and beat the bone chilling cold is with a warm glass of vin brulé. During winter months, you can find a cup at almost every bar, bacaro, and even in small stands on the street.

With everyone worried about climate change and global warming, officials in Italy are finally doing their part.

In Italy, where there is always something to celebrate, Carnevale has arrived! Similar to Mardi Gras in many ways, Carnevale is celebrated in countries around the world.

This weekend, the city of Venice kicked off Carnival season with Il Volo dell’Angelo or “Flight of the Angel.” The spectacle, witnessed by hundreds of thousands of onlookers, was held in St. Mark’s Square, the central and most historic area of the city.