Maslenitsa

Maslenitsa is the weeklong celebration festival that thanks the Zima Spirits for their protection through the Winter and celebrates the beginning of Visna. It is common knowledge that if one doesn’t have as much fun as he or she could during Maslenitsa, they are doomed to grow old in loneliness and misery.

Execution

There are 10 days in a Ruslavian week and a traditional schedule for what each day of Maslenitsa represents. In most towns and cities, it is expected that everyone will observe this daily schedule alongside their regular duties. In some areas, however, in particular the rural town of Moss Lish, the entire week is considered a holiday, and anyone who doesn't attend or engage is treated with suspicion or even hostility.

Observance

First Day - Fasting

The first day is a day of fasting, in recognition of the Zima Spirits' power and in thanks for getting everyone safely through the winter.

Second Day - Welcoming

This is a day of festivity. There is sledging, seesaws and fair stalls (balagans). Normally there will be a puppet show, re-enacting the story of the flower maiden and the snow maiden. A khorovod is danced and the Maslenitsa doll is assembled.

Show spoiler

In Moss Lish, the Maslenitsa doll is chosen rather than created, and it is a living person.

The fast is broken by eating Blini with Birch Syrup. Those who can afford to, share the pancakes with the poor.

Third Day - Playing

Fourth Day - Regaling (the sweet tooth day)

Fifth Day - Revelry

Sixth Day - Gifting

Children dress up warmly in their best coats and go from izba-to-izba requesting food. "Ankes-pankes, bake the pancakes." They will sing carols in return for sweets or pastries. If they are refused, they will throw snowballs at the house.

Seventh Day - Mother-In-Law's Eve

Eighth Day - (Zlo) Evil Gathering

Ninth Day - Forgiveness

Tenth Day - Burning