Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, and his fiancée Lauren Sanchez are set to tie the knot in a lavish wedding in Venice, Italy, at the end of June 2025. However, their plans have sparked significant backlash from local residents who are concerned about the impact of the event on the already tourist-heavy city.
Activists in Venice are organizing protests during the wedding festivities, scheduled for June 26, 27, and 28. They are raising their voices against what they see as the detrimental effects of mass tourism on the city. Banners and graffiti proclaiming “No Space for Bezos” have appeared around Venice, referencing Bezos’ connection to the space company Blue Origin.
Federica Toninello, one of the protest organizers, expressed strong sentiments against the wedding, stating that they plan to block access to venues like The Misericordia, a cultural space in Venice. She emphasized the need to protect the city from becoming a backdrop for the wealthy, saying, “We have to block this idea of this city as a tourist haven that has driven up housing costs.”
Despite the protests, some local officials, including Venice’s Mayor Luigi Brugnaro, have voiced their pride in hosting the wedding. The mayor noted that Venice is accustomed to high-profile events and that the wedding could showcase the city’s charm. He mentioned that the city is working with the wedding organizers to ensure minimal disruption.
The wedding is expected to draw around 200 guests, with some details remaining under wraps. Reports indicate that about 30 of the city’s 280 water taxis have been reserved for the event, and a few hotels will cater to the attendees. However, the city has assured residents that the wedding will not cause significant disruptions to daily life.
Bezos and Sanchez are making an effort to incorporate local culture into their celebration. They plan to source approximately 80% of their wedding supplies from Venetian vendors, highlighting their appreciation for the city. Local businesses are optimistic about the event, viewing it as an opportunity to promote Venice as a destination for quality tourism.
As the wedding date approaches, the tension between the couple’s plans and local sentiments continues to grow. Activists remain determined to make their voices heard, aiming to ensure that Venice is remembered not just as a glamorous wedding venue, but as a city that stands firm against the pressures of wealth and tourism.