That day and night the island is _en fete_.

Originally these bridges were constructed in order that the Doges might attend a solemn service; but to-day the occasion is chiefly one of high spirits.

In the gallery of the Palazzo Pesaro is a painting representing the event at a recent date; in the Querini Stampalia gallery a more ancient procession may be seen.
There, too, are many views of regattas which of old were held on the Grand Canal but now belong to the canal of the Giudecca.

The Venetians, who love these races, assemble in great numbers, both on the water, in every variety of craft, and on the quay.

The winning-post is off the end of the island of S.Giorgio; the races start from varying points towards the harbour.