Protesters Clash Over Bezos Wedding Bonanza: Kisses Yes, Bezos No in Venice

VENICE, Italy — A three-day wedding celebration for billionaire Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez Bezos drew significant attention, sparking protests from local residents. On Friday, the couple exchanged vows during a private ceremony attended by 200 celebrities, including Oprah Winfrey and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Despite the festivities, Venice’s streets were filled with demonstrators voicing opposition to the lavish event. Protesters accused Bezos of exploiting the city, which struggles with overtourism, high housing costs, and environmental concerns.

As the final party approached on Saturday evening, colorful banners adorned the streets, proclaiming slogans like “Kisses Yes, Bezos No.” Activists expressed their frustration about the event overshadowing the struggles faced by ordinary Venetians, which number around 50,000 in a city increasingly overwhelmed by tourists.

Martina Vergnano, a protester, articulated the sentiment: “We are here to continue ruining the plans of these rich people, who accumulate money by exploiting many other people.” The demonstration was deemed successful by organizers, who suggested their efforts forced a change in the location for the evening’s celebrations.

In an attempt to address environmental concerns, Bezos reportedly donated 1 million euros ($1.17 million) each to three organizations focused on preserving Venice. However, many locals viewed this gesture with skepticism, seeing it as an insufficient response to the broader issues facing the city.

“Those donations are just a misery and only aimed at clearing Bezos’ conscience,” stated Flavio Cogo, another activist involved in the protests.

Details of the exclusive wedding were kept under wraps until Sanchez Bezos shared a photo on Instagram showcasing her in a stunning white gown beside Bezos. The guest list featured a variety of high-profile figures, from athletes like Tom Brady to celebrities including Leonardo DiCaprio and the Kardashian-Jenner clan.

The couple stayed at the Aman Venice hotel during their time in the city, engaging with the press and enjoying the upscale ambiance. Notably, one slogan from the protest highlighted the ongoing environmental crisis, juxtaposed against Sanchez Bezos’s reported array of extravagant wedding attire.

In defense of the event, local administration emphasized that Venice has historically welcomed a diverse array of visitors. The controversial nuptials have reignited discussions about the balance between tourism and the needs of local residents.

Zampano reported from Rome. Associated Press journalist Niccolò Lupone in Venice contributed to this report.