On February 26, the third day of the festive Maslenitsa week, known as 'Lakomka,' Russian families will partake in jubilant traditions and rich culinary delights as they prepare for the upcoming period of Lent. This year's Maslenitsa occurs from February 26 to March 2, culminating with vibrant celebrations and the burning of effigies, before the Great Lent begins on March 3 and lasts until Easter on April 20.
The third day of Maslenitsa is traditionally celebrated with feasting and gatherings, marking the last day of the Narrow Maslenitsa, which is dedicated to household duties. The following days, starting from Thursday to Sunday, transition to Wide Maslenitsa, focusing primarily on festivities and revelry. According to popular customs, the third day is known as 'Skomornaya Sereda' because it involves enjoying food typically forbidden during the upcoming fasting period. The tables will be laden with pancakes, known as blini, which symbolize the sun.
On this day, women start their morning by cleaning their homes and preparing various pancakes stuffed with turnips, pumpkin, fish, and berries. Along with this cooking, they will recite charms to summon prosperity, and it is customary for guests to sample the blini and leave small coins as tokens of gratitude—a gesture meant to attract wealth to the household.
A notable tradition on this day is for sons-in-law to visit their mothers-in-law to share pancakes, where the mother-in-law expresses her goodwill toward her daughter's husband. This custom gave rise to the popular saying, “Son-in-law has come, where to get the sour cream?” The son-in-law would then sing for his mother-in-law and even perform playful skits with her. Meanwhile, women would ride sleds and sing festive songs.
Wednesday, February 26, is also viewed as the ideal day for resolving debts and financial matters, allowing families to enter the Great Lent with clear consciences. People would also communicate with the domovoi, or household spirit, requesting the return of lost items, signifying the restoration of order within the home. This day is all about inviting guests, generously oozing hospitality by serving the best foods to welcome family and friends alike.
Dressing up is another key component of 'Lakomka,' as families are encouraged to wear their finest garments. Girls are particularly excited to don their best outfits and step outdoors to enjoy the refreshing winter air, engaging with friends through sledding and outdoor games. It's important to keep the atmosphere joyful and vibrant, avoiding any negativity or disputes.
Superstitions also govern actions taken on this day. For example, it's believed one should not look at the sky to prevent witnessing falling stars, which could portend the loss of loved ones. Arguments and conflicts are discouraged, as this day is meant to embody peace and harmony among family members. Sadness and gloomy thoughts are to be kept at bay as well, as maintaining positivity is encouraged.
Like during the entire Maslenitsa week, the consumption of meat and alcoholic beverages is prohibited on this day, aligning with the preparation for Lent. Only non-alcoholic beverages, such as beer and mead, are permitted. This practice emphasizes self-restraint as families ready themselves for fasting where meat is limited.
Meanwhile, various folk beliefs provide insight on agricultural trends based on the weather on February 26. Snowfall on this day traditionally predicts wet spring seasons, whereas clear, windless weather suggests the arrival of warmth and early budding flora. Such observations helped farmers anticipate seasonal changes and prepare accordingly for planting.
Overall, the third day of Maslenitsa continues to be steeped in rich traditions and communal bonding. Families gather to eat heartily, resolve past issues, and spread joy before the serious period of Lent begins, reaffirming connections and embracing the spirit of the festival.