Russians have been celebrating Maslenitsa, an ancient festival bidding farewell to winter that also marks the beginning of Lent.
Russians Celebrate Maslenitsa
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Burning an effigy of winter during a celebration of Maslenitsa festival at the Guslitsa Art Estate, Moscow region, March 1, 2020. The holiday celebrates the end of winter and marks the arrival of spring. It dates back to the pagan times.
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A man climbs on a pole in snowfall to won a prize during celebrations of Maslenitsa, or Pancake Week, in Veliky Novgorod on March 1, 2020. Behind him, on the right, is a statue of Lenin.
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People carry a figure representing Lady Maslenitsa during the Maslenitsa (Shrovetide) festival at the Suoranda hills outside St. Petersburg on March 1, 2020. The Maslenitsa festival, which originates from Slavic mythology, took place this year from February 24 to March 1.
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A woman selling effigies of winter during a celebration of Maslenitsa festival at the Etnomir (Ethnoworld) cultural and educational center in Kaluga region on March 1, 2020.