In our regular column "Audio Stories" posted a new story about Maslenitsa (Shrovetide, Pancake) week – a traditional East Slavic holiday, which reflects centuries-old traditions, carefully preserved and passed down from generation to generation. It is a week-long holiday-ritual with dancing and singing in a ring, games and other outdoor amusements, dedicated to saying goodbye to winter and welcoming spring.

The holiday appeared in Russia long before the adoption of Christianity. It has its roots in paganism and is associated with the day of the vernal equinox. Shrovetide, adopted by all European peoples, could be timed to the New Year, which was celebrated in ancient times not in winter, but in spring – on the day of the vernal equinox (March 21). So it was in Europe, and so it was in Russia. The tradition of seeing off the winter cold exists not only among Slavic peoples.

For example, in Great Britain and Ireland, in late winter and early spring, they celebrate Fat Tuesday, the essence of which is a lavish feast. In French-speaking countries, it is at this time that the grand carnival "Mardi gras" (Fat Tuesday) takes place. Its participants dress up in costumes and treat themselves to wine and crepes – the twin brothers of pancakes.
Although long ago most of the rituals have lost their sacramental meaning and became entertaining, Pancake Day still symbolizes the boundary of winter and spring, a hearty cheerful life during Shrovetide week.

Оn the cover: Bucket-shaped caviar serving bowl (butter serving bowl?) with detachable lid. Imperial Glass factory. Russian Empire, Saint Petersburg. Mid-19th century