Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –
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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News
Beijing, February 19 (Xinhua) — A special atmosphere reigned at the Russian Cultural Center (RCC) in Beijing on Wednesday, February 18, as the ancient Slavic holiday of Maslenitsa was celebrated on a grand scale. This year, it coincided with the Spring Festival (Chunjie, the traditional Chinese New Year according to the lunar calendar).
Guests were greeted with fragrant golden pancakes—the ultimate symbol of the sun and the coming spring. A theatrical performance unfolded on a makeshift stage, accompanied by lively folk melodies. Performers in colorful traditional costumes sang songs and danced rousingly, conveying the full breadth of the Russian soul and the joy of the approaching warmer season.
This year, Maslenitsa week coincided with the Spring Festival holidays. Despite the differences in traditions, the desire to bid farewell to the cold and welcome spring's renewal proved to be common to the peoples of both countries.
As it turns out, the celebration at the RCC in Beijing was merely a prelude to larger-scale festivities. From February 19 to 22, the first official "Moscow Maslenitsa festivities" will be held in Beijing, in the square in front of Chaoyang Park.
A true Moscow-style fair will open here. In addition to pancakes and hot tea, guests will enjoy performances by Moscow artists. Visitors will be able to participate in folk games, purchase handmade souvenirs, and paint a matryoshka doll, immersing themselves in the atmosphere of contemporary Russian culture.
Interestingly, the large-scale "Chinese New Year in Moscow" festival is taking place at the same time on Manezhnaya Square in central Moscow. Beijing artists are treating Muscovites and visitors to the capital to vibrant performances, including traditional opera and circus acts. The two capitals are exchanging festive traditions, welcoming spring together and opening a new chapter in cultural exchange.
Earlier, Tatyana Urzhumtseva, head of the Russian Cultural Center in Beijing, noted that although the Years of Russia and China Culture have concluded, the number and scale of cultural events will not diminish. In the lead-up to the Russia-China Cross Years of Education (2026-2027), joint celebrations such as this one become a vibrant symbol of deepening mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of the two countries.
Maslenitsa is one of the most famous ancient folk holidays, still celebrated in Russia today. The festivities last a whole week. During these days, people bake pancakes and hold festivities to bid farewell to winter and welcome spring. In 2026, Maslenitsa week begins on Monday, February 16, and ends on Sunday, February 22. -0-
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