How Russians Celebrate Maslenitsa

Maslenitsa is an Eastern Slavic traditional holiday marking Shrovetide, the last week before the beginning of Lent. Although now part of the Orthodox calendar, Maslenitsa retains many elements of Slavic folk and pagan traditions. Whilst Shrovetide in other branches of Christianity involves just one day of eating indulgent foods, the Orthodox festivities of Maslenitsa go on for an entire week. What is the history behind Maslenitsa, and how do Russians celebrate it today?