Krasnodar is abuzz with excitement as the musical and gastronomic festival "Russian Maslenitsa" transforms Pushkinskaya Square from March 1 to March 9. This vibrant celebration invites residents and guests to indulge in traditional pancakes known as blini, dance to folk music, and engage in classic games, creating joyful moments under the warm southern sun.
The festival operates daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, featuring the "Maslenitsa Fair" where visitors can browse handmade crafts, traditional Russian costumes, and enjoy local delicacies. Masterclasses will also be available, allowing participants to create their own souvenirs.
For food lovers, the festival offers more than just blini; aromatic pies, fried mushrooms, kvass, and hot beverages await eager palates. Children and adults alike can partake in lively competitions such as tug-of-war and valenki tossing, reminiscent of ages past, alongside exciting amusement parks and merry-go-rounds.
Special highlights include the grand performance "Farewell to Russian Winter" scheduled for the final days of Maslenitsa, followed by a concert on International Women's Day featuring lively DJs.
On the cultural front, the fourteenth annual interregional creative festival of Slavic art, known as "Russian Field," will grace Poklonnaya Hill on August 9, 2025. Coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, this prominent festival promises to be monumental, with twelve thematic platforms, historic reconstructions, and concerts showcasing stars from various regions.
The festival will also honor significant events and figures from Russian history, starting with religious services at the Chapel of St. George the Victorious, reflecting on the deep-rooted traditions of the Slavic peoples.
Attendees can look forward to engaging programs like the "Poetic Frontier," which will feature patriotic poetry contests commemorative of the Great Victory. The musical aspect will flourish through performances by renowned regional ensembles, culminating with the participation of famous artists and choirs.
Simultaneously, opportunities will arise to savor the diverse culinary traditions of Russia. Special attention will be devoted to the culinary arts, with chefs attempting to set new world records at the festival’s National Kitchen venue.
On the educational front, the international seminar on "Russian Language and Country Studies" recently concluded in Abu Dhabi, where philologists and educators gathered to share insights about the promotion of the Russian language abroad. Deputy Minister of Education of Russia, Andrey Korneeva, underscored the importance of language collaboration between the UAE and Russia, stating, "Сотрудничество ОАЭ и России активно развивается, особенно в сфере образования " (Collaboration between the UAE and Russia is actively developing, especially in the field of education).
Experts exchanged ideas on integrating cultural components within language programs, ensuring educational tools cater to the unique challenges of teaching Russian to foreign students. R. Mukhametshina from Kazan Federal University discussed the intricacies of linguistic barriers faced by Arab-speaking audiences during her presentation.
Adding to the cultural celebration, the lecture "Russian Women in Perfumery" will take place on March 5, 2025. Alena Gerke, the speaker and founder of the project on the history of Russian perfumery, will spotlight influential women entrepreneurs who shaped the perfume industry from the 19th to 20th centuries.
Finally, sportsmanship and culture intertwine as Luis Enrique, the Brazilian midfielder of FC Zenit, has announced his intention to learn Russian, echoing his commitment to immerse himself fully in the culture. "Я тоже собираюсь заговорить по-русски, хочу научиться, хотя знаю, что будет трудновато" (I also plan to speak Russian; I want to learn, though I know it will be difficult).
This intent not only fosters his integration within the team but also signifies the underlying cultural connectivity bridging sports and language.