Winter has not yet tired us with its frosts, and soon we will say goodbye to it. In the second half of February, Russia will celebrate Maslenitsa - a folk holiday that symbolizes the arrival of spring. There is not much time left until the main holiday marking the end of winter, so it’s time to find out when Maslenitsa is celebrated this year. Maslenitsa falls on Sunday, February 22. Maslenitsa week will begin on February 16. Traditions of Maslenitsa Photo: Tenzen / Shutterstock / FOTODOM For many St. Petersburg residents, Maslenitsa is associated with pancakes, folk festivities, and cheerful outdoor games. Our ancestors loved this holiday and celebrated it in a way that would be remembered for the whole year. On Monday, it was customary to bake pancakes and gather with family to discuss plans for the festive week. By Thursday, any housework was prohibited, so people had only fun left. They organized street fights, danced in circles, slid down hills, and visited friends. On Forgiveness Sunday - the last day of Maslenitsa - it was customary to let go of all sorrows and grievances accumulated over the year. At the end of the holiday, a straw effigy representing winter was burned, welcoming the arrival of spring. How to celebrate Maslenitsa Photo: Alexandra Harashchenko / Shutterstock / FOTODOM Maslenitsa 2026 in St. Petersburg will be celebrated on a grand scale and in accordance with traditions. Folk festivities are planned on Zayachy Island and in city parks. St. Petersburg restaurants will not be left out of the most joyful folk holiday either. Here you can always enjoy pancakes with various fillings. And if you want to make pancakes yourself, we have gathered delicious recipes for you. You will find even more activities on the page of our special project.