Maslenitsa

Maslenitsa, also known as Pancake Week or Butter Week, is a traditional Slavic festival celebrated mainly in Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. It occurs in the week preceding the start of Great Lent in the Eastern Orthodox calendar and serves as a festive farewell to winter as spring approaches.

Origins and symbolism: The festival combines pre-Christian sun-worship roots with Orthodox practice. Blini, round and golden, symbolize the sun and warmth; abundant dairy products and fried foods are enjoyed before the fasting period.

Traditions and activities: Central to Maslenitsa are feasts centered on blini with various toppings; families and neighbors visit each other, share meals, and give small gifts. Outdoor activities include sledding, snowball games, bonfires, and folk performances.

Conclusion and farewell: The week ends with a ritual in which participants burn a straw effigy representing Winter, a ritual to drive away cold and invite spring. The last day is observed by some communities as a day of mutual forgiveness before Lent.

Variations: While most common in Russia and neighboring countries, Maslenitsa is observed with regional customs, languages, and foods; it has seen revival and modernization since the late 20th century, including public festivals, concerts, and markets.