By Daily Press staff
The third annual Carnevale Venice Beach is coming. The event will be held May 15 from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Windward Circle — where Windward Avenue and Main Street meet.
“Since we’re the Venice of America, it seems only natural that we have our own version of the famed Italian Carnevale with wild, colorful costumes and performances by our local artists each year,” said Esquire Jauchem, the event’s producer.
Last year, more than 2,000 residents watched two dozen musical, dance and performance artists.
“We think this is a wonderful event for the citizens of Venice, and the city is encouraging everyone to participate,” said Councilwoman Cindy Miscikowski.
Performers, vendor booths and a food court for local merchants and artists will be set up adjacent to the performance area. Those interested in becoming an event vendor should contact Nicole at (310) 576-7675, or send an e-mail to
A costume contest will be held at 8 p.m. “We had some unbelievable costumes last year and awarded more than $2,500 dollars worth of prizes,” said Bonnie Cheeseman, who is organizing the contest. “This year we will have even more prizes and we expect many more participants.”
A poster contest, open to artists who live or work in Venice — is underway to select a design that will be used to promote the event. The winning entry will receive a $500 cash prize.
The event, which focuses on art and the artists who live and work in Venice, is produced by the non-profit Venice Artists Forum, in association with the Venice Chamber of Commerce, Wavecrest Productions and is funded, in part, by a grant from the city of Los Angeles Cultural Affairs Department.
For additional information visit www.Carnevale.US, e-mail, or call (310) 396-2803.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on May 7, 2004. Read the original PDF.