Venice Carnival 2012: Masked Revelers in Colorful Fluorescent Costumes at the Annual Venetian Festival (PHOTOS)

The Venetian Carnival 2012 kicked off on Feb12 and will conclude on Feb 21. This annual festival features live concerts, parades and various cultural programs including plays and performances by international artists. The event attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world.

Scores of revelers donned in colorful masks and fluorescent costumes gathered at the St Mark’s Square in Venice, Italy, on Feb12.

Have a glimpse at the vibrant festival below:

Photo: Reuters

A traditional Venetian mask is displayed at the atelier of costume designer Stefano Nicolao in downtown Venice February 6, 2012. Nicolao is one of the biggest costume designer in Venice with more than 10,000 costumes, working with theater, cinema and renting during the Venice carnival.

Mardi Gras 2012: What To Know About Carnival History And Traditions

Photo: Reuters

It's almost Mardi Gras 2012, and people around the world are preparing for the carnival season that comes before Lent. But how did Mardi Gras get started? What does its name mean? How did it take root in New Orleans, and how is it celebrated around the world? Here are five things to know about Mardi Gras history and in traditions, from how the holiday is celebrated worldwide to why some believe the carnival's roots lie in ancient Rome.