This year's Venice Carnival kicked off in typically extravagant style over the weekend, as thousands of visitors to the lagoon city joined locals in the annual festival. Here are some of the most magical photos from the opening regatta and 'Tutta colpa della Luna' or 'Blame the Moon' event.

Lavish costumes against the backdrop of the Venice canals give the festival an otherwordly feel. The city streets are filled with revellers in costume during the opening weekend. The Venice carnival is thought to have started in 1162, when Venetians spontaneously gathered to celebrate a military victory in Saint Mark's Square.