Maslenitsa in the Orthodox tradition and folk culture is the time for saying goodbye to winter and preparing for Lent. During Maslenitsa week, it is customary to indulge in pancakes and other beloved treats. However, the main essence of the holiday is fun, communication, and joy.Maslenitsa was celebrated on Friday, February 28, at the Josef Lettrich Gymnasium in Martin with the already beloved folklore program “Khorovod.” After all, what is Maslenitsa without songs and folk festivities?
Creating the atmosphere of a true celebration were director-choreographer Maria Vladimirova and soloists from the Belarusian folk ensemble “Prasnica” (which translates to “Spindle”), Ivan and Valentina Zelina. From the first notes, Valentina’s bright voice captivated everyone present. The performers sang Belarusian and Russian songs celebrating the arrival of spring and Maslenitsa week. Everyone also enjoyed a fun and educational quiz on Maslenitsa traditions. The students demonstrated excellent knowledge, which they had gained from engaging lessons in Russian language.
Participants of the “Guess What’s in the Pancake” contest had the chance to appreciate the richness of Russian cuisine. The answers were sometimes unexpected, and not all fillings were recognized. It was clear that many were trying them for the first time. The most important thing was that all the treats were to everyone's liking! Special thanks to Valentina Zelina for organizing and conducting the tasty contest.
After such a feast, music played once again. Under the virtuoso playing of accordionist Ivan Zelinin, feet automatically began to dance. The participants learned traditional movements of Belarusian and Russian folk dances, and then, holding hands, they spun in a friendly circle. That’s where the real fun, joy, and sincere energy were felt!
In conclusion, everyone was able to enjoy the delicious pancakes once more. In short, the celebration was a great success!
The event was held as part of the project “Russian Language Days,” organized by the public organization “Ruslana” and the European Fund for Slavic Literacy and Culture with the support of the National Minorities Culture Support Fund Kultminor.
Maria Vladimirova
