The Venetian and Palazzo's epic summer festival Carnevale returns starting May 27, and big-time chefs and food events are on the agenda. The three-month celebration of the summer festivals of Italy runs through Sept. 8 with more than 300 experiences.
Most intriguing among the events, a Taste of Eataly weekend with Mario Batali and Joe Bastianich, perhaps confirming a rumor that the duo would bring a smaller version of their market and dining experience to Vegas.
While the dates are still fast and loose, some of the announced events include bold-face names such as Emeril Lagasse and Sammy Hagar, George Clooney and Wolfgang Puck and Curtis Stone.
So far, the Sammy Hagar Beach Bum Rum Weekend with a barbecue by Emeril Lagasse is confirmed for June 8-9 and a Passion for Cabernet Weekend takes place July 25-26. Television personality Curtis Stone comes to the resorts July 26-27. On Aug. 29-31, Italian sommeliers face off.
Other events awaiting dates include George Clooney's Casamigos Tequila weekend with a festival by Wolfgang Puck, a FIJI Weekend in Paradise and the Taste of Eataly weekend.
Ongoing food events include:
· Cocktails Unmasked — A Summer of Mixology at The Venetian, where every week, a new spirit shines in the spotlight. Guests can sample a new mixed drink every night for free.
· Veni, Vidi, Vino — The Carnevale Wine Walk: This interactive experience lets guests grab a map and explore Italian wines by the glass at the resorts.
· Sushi, Sake, and Samba: On Fridays, the chefs of SushiSamba demonstrate how to make sushi while later in the evening, the restaurant holds an evening of sushi, sake and samba.
· All Coverage of Festivals [~ELV~]
Emeril Lagasse and Mario Batali [Photo: Paul Porter]