I see that Mardi Gras Day is Feb. 24 this year. Anyone have a sense of how much before this the higher "Carnivale" rates kick in in Venice? Anyone have anything good or bad to say about going to Venice about 10 days before Carnival?

the light is beautiful at that time or year....i have choosen to wait until early march on the suggestion of many including the landlord in venice

From reading other posts, sounds like Carinivale in Venice kicks into high gear about 10 days before (the weekend before the weekend before Mardi Gras day. I'm not necessarily looking to go for Carnivale, it's just that this is the time that I am available to go. Will we be gouged? Are there decorations, festivities already underway 10 days prior? And most importantly, what is the weather like??

http://www.carnivalofvenice.com/index.asp?lang=UK

My husband and I spent time in Venice during Carnivale three years ago. Look up the above site and you'll find lots of info. We had a blast, rented costumes on line, reserved ticket to a palace event, and loved being there with all the fantastic costumes all over the town, as well as entertainment in San Marco square. We stayed at Accademia hotel and did not get gouged. BUT, it was very cold that year, but the bonus was snow did fall and what a beautiful sight along the canals. GO if you think you might like a once in a lifetime experience. The crowds are huge and I don't think we would do it again, but are so happy we did it.