Pancake week begins in Russia today. According to ancient Russian beliefs, it is the harbinger of Lent. In 2013, Shrovetide falls on the period from March 11 to 17. Maslenitsa will be celebrated in Russia in all cities. The main venues for walks in Moscow will be Kolomenskoye, Gorky Park and Revolution Square. According to tradition, Pancake Week ends with Forgiving Sunday.
On the eve of Shrovetide, Patriarch Kirill held a Divine Liturgy in the Moscow church of the Assumption of the Virgin. The patriarch urged all believing Christians to embark on a repentant path, forgive all insults and sincerely reconcile with others. Shrovetide is considered the oldest folk holiday meeting spring and winter farewell. The church calls it the Cheese Week, as Pancake Week precedes Lent.
Pancakes, as a mandatory attribute of Pancake week, have a ritual meaning. Hot, rosy and round, they symbolize the sun, which lengthens the days, flaring up brighter and brighter. Each day of Shrovetide has its own specific name and certain rules, according to which it should be carried out.
Monday is the “meeting”. Our ancestors on this day made a stuffed Pancake week out of straw, put old female clothes on it and put it on a pole. A scarecrow on a sleigh was carried around the village, and then put it on a snowy mountain. Ice slides, swings and refreshment tables were arranged.
Tuesday is a flirtation. The day begins the fun of entertainment. Everywhere on the streets there were groups of mummers. Girls and boys sleighed and ate pancakes. The girls looked after the grooms, and the boys looked after the brides. Moreover, it was customary to play weddings only after Easter.
Wednesday is a “gourmet”. Rich tables were served with refreshments. All houses warmly welcomed their guests with various delicacies and pancakes.
Thursday - "revelry." Broad Thursday or fracture. This day is the middle of festive fun and entertainment.
Friday is the "evening motherland". Visit by the son-in-law of the mother-in-law, who pre-baked traditional pancakes and prepared treats.
Saturday - "Zolovkin gatherings." On Saturday, they go to all relatives to visit and are treated to pancakes.
Sunday is a “good day”. The final day of Pancake week. Friends and relatives pay visits to each other and apologize for accidental and intentional grief and resentment.
