Venice came alive with colour, pageantry, and the Olympic spirit as the Venice Carnival 2026 kicked off with the theme “Olympus – The Origins of the Game.” From elaborately decorated floats on the Grand Canal to masked revelers in St Mark’s Square, the festival celebrates the city’s rich heritage, creativity, and mythological inspirations. The carnival runs from January 31 to February 17. PICS/AFP

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez were seen boarding a water taxi at the Aman Hotel in Venice on Thursday, as celebrations began for their much-anticipated wedding. (Pics/ AFP)