How Russians Celebrate Maslenitsa

Every day has its way

Every day of the pancake week has its own name and particular rituals but these are rarely observed in present day Russia. In the past on Monday everyone welcomed Maslenitsa by singing and making a straw stuffed effigy, which was to be burnt on Sunday. On Tuesday young people would go out and play or take a sledge ride. On the “sweet day” of Wednesday people would indulge with pancakes and sweets. Thursday was for fist fights and other physical activities. On Friday people visited relatives, particularly mothers in law, while young wives hosted parties on Saturday. Sunday was the climax of it all with public celebrations and abundance of food.