Russian Maslenitsa at the Language House

The Russian equivalent of Carnival is called Maslenitsa. It is the week before the Russian Orthodox Lent. Maslenitsa is one of the best Russian holidays and something that everyone can appreciate. It is a fun filled week of games and eating “blini”, Russian crepes.

At the Language House, we the Russian Cluster hosted a day of Maslenitsa in the beginning of February. Katya and Rachel, the Russian Cluster devoted chefs, woke up at the crack of dawn and started cooking hundreds (literally) of delicious, mouth-watering, buttery, golden crepes. Leysan, Misha, and Amanda beautifully decorated the Language House’s multipurpose room with Russian paraphernalia including brightly patterned scarves and a an authentic 19th century

samovar. Bliny, caviar along with other many other fillings, tea, music (thanks to Harry) - everything ready for the party to begin. After helping themselves to the delicious blini, the guests seated themselves to watch a series of entertaining performances. First, Hannah gave a colorful and informative presentation on the history and meaning behind Maslenitsa. Next, one of the Russian classes sang a Russian folk song.

And finally, a different Russian class sang, danced, and acted out an entertaining skit.

Meanwhile, the guests continued to eat, drink, and enjoy the fabulousness of the holiday known as Maslenitsa. Overall, the day was a wonderful, blini-filled success!

Russian Cluster

Hannah Silverman for the Russian Cluster