Maslenitsa or Cheese Week is a folk holiday cycle associated with the farewell to winter and the welcome of spring.
Maslenitsa is also a preparatory week for Lent. In the Christian world, its purpose is reconciliation with neighbors, forgiveness of offenses, and preparation for the path of repentance to God.
Maslenitsa is also commonly known as Cheese Week; it is the last week before Lent.
In Rus', Maslenitsa is celebrated as a joyful and cheerful holiday, celebrated by everyone, young and old.
The mention of the word "Maslenitsa" conjures up images of joyful winter days, a holiday filled with the hubbub and noise, the delicious aroma of pancakes in the air, the ringing of bells adorning the elegant troikas, cheerful booths, and solemn tea parties under the festive light of an oil lamp.
This holiday is also popular in Moldova, since we are also an Orthodox country and, like Maslenitsa, we observe Lent and celebrate Easter.
There's a common misconception that Maslenitsa is more pagan than Orthodox. But that's not true.
The main purpose of Maslenitsa is that it serves as a preparatory week for Lent. Maslenitsa is a time to spend in good company with loved ones, family, and friends.
These days, churches begin to celebrate Lenten services, with only Wednesday and Friday being an exception.
If you've decided to go to Moscow for Maslenitsa, you'll definitely need to find cheap flights to the Russian capital. Booking in advance will be cheaper and more convenient.
The most crucial moment of Maslenitsa is its final day. February 26th is Forgiveness Sunday, the last Sunday before the beginning of Lent. It is on this day that dairy products are no longer consumed.
On Forgiveness Sunday, it is customary to ask each other for forgiveness in order to begin Lent with a pure soul.
Here in Moldova, as in the entire Orthodox world, we also honor traditions and observe Great Lent.
So we wish you a good Maslenitsa holiday, ask for forgiveness and forgive everyone on Forgiveness Sunday, and enter Lent with a pure soul.
