What is Maslenitsa?
Q: What is Maslenitsa?
A: Maslenitsa is a popular and cheerful religious holiday in Russia that originated from pagan times before Russia was converted to Christianity.
Q: Why is Maslenitsa celebrated?
A: Maslenitsa was originally a symbol of the spring solstice, but now it is considered a Christian holiday which goes right before the Great Lent.
Q: What kind of food do people enjoy during Maslenitsa?
A: During Maslenitsa, people enjoy almost any food, except meat.
Q: How long does Maslenitsa last?
A: Usually, Maslenitsa lasts for seven days.
Q: What is burned on the last day of Maslenitsa?
A: On the last day of Maslenitsa, people burn a doll which is made of branches and straw and dressed in bright clothes.
Q: What does the doll symbolize?
A: The doll, called "Maslenitsa," symbolizes the cold and severe winter.
Q: Why do people burn the doll?
A: By burning "Maslenitsa," people say goodbye to winter and greet a warm spring.
