Regattas have been a tradition in Italy for more than seven centuries, and this one in Venice is widely known as one of the most beautiful in the world. The Historical Regatta begins with a procession of historical boats, all decorated and strewn with flowers, down the Grand Canal. Leading the procession is the “Machina,” a vessel of baroque style which carries officials and local dignitaries. Then there are various competitions that arouse intense enthusiasm among the spectators; by the end of the regatta, all of the canals are crowded with boatloads of revelers. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary