Maslenitsa week in the Nizhny Novgorod region starts on February 16.

      04 January 2026 14:28 Culture and Leisure

      In 2026 Maslenitsa in the Nizhny Novgorod region will be celebrated from February 16 to 22. Immediately after the end of the festive week, on February 23, Orthodox believers will begin Great Lent, which will last until Easter. This year Easter falls on April 12.

      Maslenitsa is an ancient holiday whose roots go back to the pre-Christian era. Originally it was associated with the spring equinox and symbolized a farewell to winter, the arrival of spring, and the beginning of a new cycle of life. Pancakes, round and golden-brown, were considered symbols of the sun, warmth, and rebirth.

      After the adoption of Christianity the tradition was preserved and given a new meaning. The Church incorporated Maslenitsa week into the religious calendar as a preparatory period before Great Lent. Therefore, the holiday remains vibrant and beloved by the people, while retaining deep cultural and spiritual significance.

      During Maslenitsa pancakes are traditionally made, large public celebrations are held, people perform round dances, and fairs are organized. The week concludes with the burning of the Maslenitsa effigy — an ancient ritual symbolizing a farewell to the old and a hope for the spring renewal of nature and abundance.

      Read more about the holiday here.

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Maslenitsa week in the Nizhny Novgorod region starts on February 16.