Fancy dress has been practised for over hundreds of years, tracing its origins as far back as Roman times but it is generally accepted that the present day of notion of a fancy dress party has evolved from the Italian Masquerade balls of the 15th century. These were truly grand and opulent occasions and were almost exclusively attended by the aristocracy and wealthy. These festivities were for the upper classes, and were closely associated with the traditional Venetian Carnival and the use of masks over the face to be unrecognisable.

Have you ever wondered what the big deal is about Mardi Gras, or Carnival? While it's barely noticed in many places, in others the whole city comes to a halt for a monster party. New Orleans and Rio de Janiero are probably the best-known cities for Mardi Gras parties, although by no means are they the only ones!

Face painting is one of those activities, which cannot be left out if you are visiting a carnival or funfair with your kids. It is a growing trend, and this particular art had been practiced for centuries, by which little kids as well as adults get amused.