Maslenitsa Week Begins in Transnistria

Maslenitsa Week has begun in Transnistria, running from February 16 to 22. For Orthodox Christians, this marks the final week before Great Lent, known as Cheese-Fare Week. Since the holiday is tied to the date of Easter, it shifts each year.

Throughout the week, it’s customary to visit relatives and treat them to pancakes (bliny), and to make peace with one another before the fast begins. Meat is already off the menu, though dairy, eggs, and fish are still permitted.

Traditionally, the first half of the week is devoted to preparing food, while the second half is for visiting friends and joining in festivities. Monday marks the “welcoming” of Maslenitsa, when pancake-baking traditionally begins. Tuesday brings folk festivities. On Wednesday, sons-in-law would visit their mothers-in-law for pancakes. Thursday marks the start of “Wide Maslenitsa,” with public celebrations and sledding. On Friday, mothers-in-law would return the visit to their sons-in-law. Saturday is known as “Sister-in-Law Gatherings,” when wives would invite their husbands’ sisters to visit. Sunday brings the most vibrant part of the celebrations, culminating in the burning of the Maslenitsa effigy.

Tiraspol

On February 22, the capital invites residents to a grand folk festival in Catherine Park. Visitors can expect an exhibition and fair of decorative and fine arts, creative workshops, choral performances, interactive programs for children, sports activities, games, and more. Festivities begin at noon, with a fire show planned along with the burning of the Maslenitsa effigy at 4:30 PM.

Bendery

Bendery will also bid farewell to Maslenitsa on February 22. Events at the square by the P. Tkachenko Palace of Culture kick off at 1:00 PM with a theatrical concert featuring the city’s top creative ensembles. Meanwhile, visitors can enjoy a fair with traditional treats, a craft exhibition, and workshops. Sporting competitions for the daring, a children’s play area, and colorful photo zones round out the program.

Grigoriopol

The “Wide Maslenitsa” festival in Grigoriopol begins at 11:00 AM at the square by the District Palace of Culture and Sports, with exhibitions, tasty treats, and concerts on the program.

Dubossary

In Dubossary, everyone is invited to a cheerful send-off of winter at 11:00 AM on Zaschitnikov Square (Defenders’ Square). Organizers promise plenty of pancakes, lively games, and round dances, with the celebration wrapping up with the burning of the Maslenitsa effigy.

Rybnitsa

Festivities in Rybnitsa also start at 11:00 AM, with residents and visitors enjoying folk celebrations featuring plenty of pancakes, a concert program, and the burning of the effigy. Everyone is invited to Victory Square.

Kamenka District

As is tradition, on February 22 the Cossack Guest House, together with the administration of Valea Adânca village and the Kamenka District Department of Culture, invites everyone to welcome spring in grand style in one of Transnistria’s most picturesque locations. Guests can expect full immersion in folk traditions, with the festive program running from noon to 4:00 PM at the local community club.

Winter will also be bid farewell in other towns and villages across the republic on February 22 — check official district administration websites for local listings.