Maslenitsa is one of the most joyful holidays of the year, which is widely celebrated in Russia. It reflects old traditions, carefully kept and passed on from generation to generation. This is a week-long holiday with round dances, songs, dances, and games, dedicated to saying goodbye to winter and welcoming spring. In Russia, it has long been customary to celebrate the change of seasons. Winter has always been a difficult time for people: cold, hungry, dark. Therefore, the arrival of spring was especially awaited, and this definitely had to be celebrated. Our ancestors said that it is difficult for young Spring to overcome the old insidious Winter. To help Spring drive away Winter, fun festivals were organized on Maslenitsa. Saying goodbye to Winter, the ancients praised Yarila, the pagan god of the sun and fertility. Maslenitsa is celebrated for seven days, from Monday to Sunday. Each day of Maslenitsa week has its own name and is filled with a unique meaning. The first day of Maslenitsa week is called “Meeting ”- this is the meeting of Maslenitsa. On this day they start baking pancakes. Tuesday has traditionally been a day of festivities, games, and fun. On this day, the fun began in the morning, with sleigh rides, ice slides, and carousels. On Wednesday, according to tradition, the son-in-law came to his mother-in-law for pancakes, which she prepared especially for him. On Thursday, all household work stopped and real festivities took place in honor of Maslenitsa. On Friday, the son-in-law invited his mother-in-law to his place for pancakes. On Saturday, the daughter-in-law honoredly invited her husband's relatives to the house for pancakes. Forgiveness Sunday ends the Maslenitsa week. On this day, close people ask each other for forgiveness for all the troubles and insults caused over the year. Also, a big doll made out of hay is set on fire. This holiday is not celebrated that big nowadays, but still, many traditions are still alive, like pancakes and Forgiveness Sunday. I hope you enjoyed reading my article.