Russian Maslenitsa Delighted Residents of West Africa

All festive gatherings turned out to be truly warm and spring-like bright, and most importantly—uniting, open to African friends of Russia. For example, in Burkina Faso, the celebration brought together at the Russian House in Ouagadougou both Russian families and Burkinabé students of educational courses, as well as representatives of the republic's ministry of communications, culture, arts, and tourism.

For African guests, Maslenitsa became an unforgettable encounter with Russian culture and ancient folk traditions. Burkinabé eagerly learned about the customs of the winter farewell holiday, enthusiastically participated in Russian folk games, and enjoyed appetizing golden pancakes with jam and sour cream. The celebration culminated in the traditional ritual of burning an effigy, symbolizing spring purification and a new beginning.

Maslenitsa was also celebrated at the Regional Scientific Lyceum in Ouagadougou. Specialists from the Russian House of the Center for Folk Diplomacy told lyceum students and teachers about the history of the holiday, its symbols, and its significance for Russian culture. A creative workshop helped the kids consolidate their new knowledge—nearly 80 ninth-graders got the opportunity to make a traditional Russian protective doll.

In turn, in the capital of Guinea, Conakry, guests were warmly welcomed at the Russian Embassy in the republic. Active participants in the ethno-cultural evening “Maslenitsa: Let's Party Russian Style!” included staff from the partner Russian House of the Center for Folk Diplomacy.

The diverse and rich holiday program allowed guests to learn more about the memorable Maslenitsa traditions passed down from generation to generation in the Russian people. Festival participants enthusiastically made protective dolls and painted matryoshka dolls, led round dances, and enjoyed warm communication over tea with ruddy Maslenitsa pancakes. In addition, everyone who wished could compete in Russian folk games—tug-of-war, pillow fights, fun ski races, and felt boot throwing. The evening's bright finale was the key Maslenitsa ritual—the burning of the effigy.

African and Russian participants in the celebrations unanimously noted that Russian Maslenitsa captivated them with its soulful atmosphere, helped them touch kind ancient traditions, charged them with good spirits, and gave a sense of unity and warmth. The Maslenitsa festivities became a space of joy and creativity, cultural exchange, and strengthening of friendly ties between the peoples of Russia and African countries.