Shrovetide is public festivities, games and fun, burning a scarecrow of winter and, of course, many, many pancakes. This holiday is loved by both children and adults, they are waiting for it, the whole family is preparing for it and celebrating it, by the way, not only in Russia.
Contrary to popular belief that Maslenitsa is a purely Slavic holiday, it is celebrated in many other countries of the world. And let it be called a little differently, may it have some specific rituals and customs in it, but its essence remains the same - this holiday is dedicated to the seeing off of winter and precedes the beginning of Lent. According to the research data of historians, festivities like the Slavic Shrovetide have been present since ancient times among peoples who, one way or another, were related to the great Druids and the Christian faith.
Where and how is Shrovetide celebrated
In the French-speaking countries of the world, the Mardi Gras festival or the so-called Fat Tuesday is an analogue of the Russian Maslenitsa. On this day, colorful street processions take place, people literally indulge in gluttony, drink a lot, and a refusal to celebrate, according to popular beliefs, can bring misfortunes and life's troubles to the whole family.
The most famous and visited ritual of the winter farewell is held in Venice. Every year, more than 3 million tourists come here to see the most amazing sight. Here, on the eve of the beginning of Lent, the most colorful costume carnival takes place.
In Poland, the end of winter is celebrated on the so-called Fat Thursday. On the eve of the holiday, the Poles bake very fat donuts in huge quantities, and during the festival itself an incendiary carnival takes place, in addition, on this day it is customary to gather guests for balls and evening parties. To accept friends and relatives in your home on this day is very honorable and prestigious.
In Germany, a celebration similar to the Russian Shrovetide lasts no less than 4 months and is called Fastnaht, which means "night on the eve of Lent." In the last days of Fastnacht, the Germans, like the Russians, burn a scarecrow of winter and walk through the streets in carnival costumes with funny songs and chants.
In Armenia, a lot of pilaf is cooked for Shrovetide and distributed to those who are poor and cannot afford delicious food. In Spain, a sardine’s funeral is being held these days, and in the Czech Republic, real mares, goats or bears stroll through the streets.
