Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
On Sunday, February 22, the Student City on Lesnaya Street sparkled with bright colors and joy. Extensive Maslenitsa festivities unfolded, organized by the Student Club and the United Student Council of the Dormitories. The celebration immersed students in a whirlwind of folk traditions and exciting yet friendly competitions.
It all began with a Maslenitsa quest, where 14 teams from the dorms competed in strength, agility, and wits. The students dressed up Maslenitsa—an improvised effigy—demonstrated their heroic dexterity, deftly negotiated buffoonish questions, and deftly overcame tricky obstacles. The main competition was "Pancake Maker"—a final culinary and creative duel in which pancakes were transformed into works of art.
The jury, headed by Maxim Pasholikov, Vice-Rector for Information, Youth Policy, and Security, judged complex pancake-like structures: flowers, huts with wells, military equipment, and Maslenitsa dolls. The winners of these first spring games were the teams from Dormitories No. 4a, 16, and 1.
"It's wonderful to see that Polytechnic students not only study hard but also have genuine fun, creating an atmosphere of warmth and friendship. This holiday unites us all as a large university family. Take care of each other, respect traditions, and remember that you are the ones who create the unique spirit of the university!" Boris Kondin, Head of the Directorate of Cultural Programs and Youth Creativity, addressed the students.
The Polytechnic University's finest creative groups created the atmosphere at the venue: the spirited buffoons from the Student Theater, the fiery vocalists of the "Don't Sleep!" Musical Show, and "Stars of the Polytechnic." The vibrant accordion tunes sent both adults and children into a dance routine. And to earn "pancake tickets" for refreshments, guests stormed the creative stations hosted by PROF, "Black Bears," KVN, Adapters, and the "Don't Sleep!" organizers.
"I learned about Maslenitsa from friends and never would have guessed it was such a big celebration! I had the chance to play, listen to a concert, and chat with friends. It was so much fun, loud, and exciting when they burned the effigy!" shared second-year student Alina Ivanova.
The festivities concluded with the traditional burning of a Maslenitsa effigy in a large, friendly circle dance. According to the organizers, 4,000 pancakes were eaten during the day—thus the Polytechnic students kicked winter into high gear and welcomed spring!
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