The sun on a platter
Maslenitsa is an ancient Slavic holiday rooted in pagan rituals, heralding the arrival of spring and farewell to the winter cold. Her story is connected with the celebration of the sun, whose power, like the golden circle of a pancake, gives warmth and awakens nature to a new life. With the advent of Christianity, Maslenitsa took on a new meaning, becoming part of the preparation for Lent, while retaining its bright, cheerful character.
This is the time when the house is filled with the aroma of pancakes, melted butter and ringing laughter, and the streets come alive with joy. Maslenitsa marks the transition from winter cold to spring warming. It unites people at a common table, where each pancake is a symbol of the sun, joy and unity. On these days, our hearts are warmed not only by the warmth of the hearth, but also by family, friends and a sense of celebration that awakens the best feelings in us.
Each day of the holiday week has a special meaning and has its own name:
Monday is a "Meeting". From that day on, they begin to bake pancakes, prepare structures for festivities, booths, and a straw scarecrow.
Tuesday is the "Game". The beginning of fun and amusements, horseback riding and sleigh rides are arranged, the young people are looking for grooms and brides.
Wednesday is a "Treat". According to custom, mothers-in-law invite sons-in-law for pancakes.
Thursday is "Revelry". Mass festivities continue from morning to evening, mummers entertain the crowd, sing, dance, carry a stuffed animal on a sleigh.
Friday — "Mother-in-law's evenings". It's the turn of the sons-in-law to treat the mothers-in-law with pancakes, and all the relatives are invited to lunch or dinner.
Saturday — "Sister-in-law gatherings". The day when a newly-made daughter-in-law invites her husband's sisters to her, gives them gifts, feeds and entertains in order to strengthen family relations.
Sunday is the "Forgiven Day". On the last day of Shrovetide, they go to the guests, ask for forgiveness, exchange treats, again they carry an effigy on a sleigh, after which it is solemnly burned.
Maslenitsa is not just a farewell to winter, but a whole ritual reflecting the cycle of life. By burning an effigy, we leave behind everything old in order to face the new with a pure heart. Festive games, sleigh rides, and noisy festivities seem to awaken the earth from its sleep, reminding it that life is a series of renewals filled with light and hope.
May Maslenitsa fill your home with joy and harmony, and every pancake bursting with heat on the table will become not just a treat, but a symbol of well-being and happiness.
We have prepared a selection of exclusive gifts for Maslenitsa especially for you.
We wish you to welcome spring with ease, leave all the bad weather behind and go towards sunny days with an open heart.
Happy holidays, happy Carnival!
