What was meant to be a dreamy, star-studded Italian wedding for Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez quickly became the centre of controversy in Venice.
While A-listers danced, dined, and dazzled across the city’s canals, locals and activists took to the streets in frustration—voicing anger over the extravagant $50 million celebration.
Protesters Say “Enough” to Lavish Display of Wealth
On Friday, as Bezos and Sanchez exchanged vows on the stunning island of San Giorgio Maggiore, more than 700 protestors marched through Venice.
Singing resistance songs like Bella Ciao and waving handmade banners, they chanted slogans such as “Bezos out of the lagoon” and “Money can’t buy style.”
The demonstrators, made up of left-wing groups, environmentalists, and local social forums, criticised the spectacle for showcasing opulence while average citizens grapple with rising living costs, over-tourism, and climate-related flooding.
One protester even waved a sign that read, “$55 million for a wedding, divorced in three days.”
“No Space for Bezos”: Venice Pushes Back
The movement behind the demonstrations, No Space for Bezos, wasn’t just a clever play on Bezos’ space company—it reflected the frustration Venetians feel as they see their city turned into a playground for the ultra-rich.
Protesters originally planned to march to St Mark’s Square but were rerouted by police to the Rialto Bridge instead.
Organisers rallied the crowd near Santa Lucia railway station before moving through the narrow streets.
Police lined the route while chants echoed through the city, with red flares lighting up the cobblestones.
Bezos and Sanchez Keep Celebrating as City Reacts
Despite the chaos, the newlyweds seemed unfazed.
The couple was spotted taking a romantic water taxi ride back to their luxury hotel, the Aman Venice.
Lauren smiled and waved for cameras while Jeff, when asked about the protests, simply replied, “Love you guys,” and blew a kiss to journalists.
It wasn’t just the wedding ceremony that stirred attention—Bezos and Sanchez are wrapping up a three-day celebration with a final bash at the medieval Arsenale shipyard, where Lady Gaga and Elton John are expected to perform.
Celebs Keep the Party Rolling
While tensions ran high in the streets, the guest list read like a who’s who of global fame.
From Oprah Winfrey and Kim Kardashian to Tom Brady and Orlando Bloom, stars were seen soaking up the Venice atmosphere.
Sydney Sweeney, one of the most buzzed-about celebs at the event, was reportedly the “most sought after” guest.
She turned heads while strolling through the city with Bloom and Brady, sparking fresh dating rumours.
Kardashian Sisters Make an Early Exit
Kim and Khloe Kardashian, dressed to impress, were spotted leaving Venice on Saturday morning after attending the festivities.
While their exit was early, it was likely due to family commitments—they were seen FaceTiming their children during the celebrations.
Meanwhile, Kris Jenner and Corey Gamble made the most of their time in Venice, happily waving to fans and hopping onto a water taxi for some final moments in the city.
Local Performers Add a Venetian Touch
In a nod to local culture, Bezos and Sanchez included Venetian artists and bakers in their celebration.
The Nu’Art dance group, known for its quirky fire-breathing routines and performance art, is slated to perform at the final party.
Guests have also been treated to traditional treats from the city’s oldest bakery, Rosa Salva, with goody bags packed with handpicked cookies and pastries.
Venice Residents Say the City Is Not for Sale
For many Venetians, the wedding was less a fairytale and more a reminder of how out of reach their city is becoming.
Protests like this one are part of a growing movement pushing back against the pressures of over-tourism, cruise ship traffic, and skyrocketing housing prices.
Locals say their quality of life is being eroded by events that prioritise global elites over residents.
One protester put it bluntly: “This isn’t about envy. It’s about dignity.”
What Comes Next?
Jeff and Lauren are expected to leave Venice on Sunday after a private lunch with close friends on the peaceful island of Torcello.
From fireworks to custom baked goods, their Venetian wedding has certainly left a mark—not just on the guests, but on the city itself.
Whether the public outrage will lead to more changes in how Venice handles luxury events remains to be seen.
But one thing is clear: the city’s residents are making their voices heard.