Wrapping up winter and ushering spring, the weekend of March 1st and 2nd, 2025, offers residents and visitors of major Russian cities the chance to indulge in cultural vibrancy and festive occasions. Both St. Petersburg and Moscow feature various events, celebrations, and enjoyable activities truly embodying the spirit of Maslenitsa, alongside several other exciting entertainment options.
Starting with St. Petersburg, the highlight of this weekend is the grand Maslenitsa festivities set to take place at prominent venues. At the historic Peter and Paul Fortress, the event titled "Ignite, Dear Maslenitsa" will take place from 12:00 to 18:30 on both days. This celebration combines traditional customs with modern technologies, featuring a giant pancake cake, ethnic beatboxing, and interactive installations. A charitable corner will also be present, alongside art-inspired traditional hats and gifts from the enigmatic "Secret Gentleman".
Another exciting event is at the Atrium Restaurant, part of the Taleon Imperial Hotel, where guests can enjoy Maslenitsa festivities on March 2nd. This cheerful celebration symbolizes the farewell to winter and the warm welcome of spring, providing the perfect atmosphere to gather with loved ones.
March 1st will see lively celebrations at the LETO Trade and Entertainment Complex. Here, the event "Oh, Pancake!" will showcase traditional Russian folk games, promising to revive age-old customs and create joyful memories.
The Elagin Island Park transforms on March 2nd for the engaging public celebrations of "Shout, Maslenitsa!", where participants can enjoy traditional revelries. The festivities will include carnival games and the burning of the six-meter Maslenitsa effigy, marking the end of winter.
From February 21st to March 9th, the Peter the Great Botanical Garden is hosting the "Thaw of Feelings" festival, celebrating the seasonal transition and featuring blooming bulbs such as hyacinths and tulips. Admission to this floral wonderland is granted with the purchase of a festival ticket, available throughout the period.
For those interested in more interactive fun, the Babushkina Park promises exhilarating Maslenitsa activities on both days, including free photo sessions with huskies and the opportunity to participate in various workshops and enjoy entertainment like the giant Cheburashka mascot.
Theater lovers will find delight at the BUFF Theatre, where the musical comedy "Paris for Two" invites audiences to escape to the romantic setting of Paris. This cabaret-style performance runs through March and provides the perfect dose of entertainment for anyone longing for spring.
If live music is what you seek, don't miss the "Magic of Candles" concert at the Tavrida Garden's greenhouse on March 2nd. The event features romantic soundtracks from beloved Hollywood films, creating an enchanting atmosphere surrounded by hundreds of candles.
Finally, for adrenaline enthusiasts, St. Petersburg's drift racing fans can look forward to the 7th stage of the city’s drift championship titled "LET’S DRIFT 2024–2025" at the local autodrome on March 2nd from 12:00 to 16:00. This thrilling event guarantees excitement and fierce competition.
Shifting focus to Moscow, residents can immerse themselves in similar festive exuberance. The city is awash with colors as the "Moscow Maslenitsa" festival takes place until March 2nd at over 30 locations across the city. Visitors can savor delicious pancakes and participate in traditional games, from boot tossing to carrying buckets on their shoulders. The festival promises no shortage of fun with folk performances and culinary workshops.
Those seeking craftsmanship should visit the LADYA Spring Fantasy fair taking place at the Expocentre, where over 700 artists and craftsmen display their crafts, celebrating Russia's rich artistic heritage.
Moscow's Gorky Park will host the culminating day of the "Moscow Traditions" festival on March 1st, featuring the grand finale of the boot hockey tournament. The acclaimed singer Olga Buzova will headline this whirling celebration.
For families, the Blagosfera Community Center welcomes all to the family charity festival "Cats and Mice" on March 1st, facilitating community bonding through joy and giving.
At VDNH, Maslenitsa festivities continue with various activities, concerts, and culinary delights on offer until March 2nd, catering to those who wish to enjoy winter's last hurrah.
Cultural enthusiasts won't want to miss the "Pristine Russia" nature festival at the New Tretyakov Gallery, showcasing rich depictions of nature through art.
Join the celebrations at the Botanic Garden of Moscow State University, where the "Rehearsal of Spring" exhibition invites visitors to appreciate the arrival of the blooming season.
The multimedia center "Soyuzmultpark" at VDNH is set to celebrate its fourth anniversary on March 1st with its unique themed program merging classic animation with modern technology.
For humor aficionados, enjoy back-to-back performances from leading comedians featuring popular acts from THT and YouTube—guaranteeing laughter at various atmospheric bars and eateries.
Sports enthusiasts can participate or spectate the "Good Ski Run" event on March 2nd at Larisa Lazutina Park—a skiing race open to all skill levels, encouraging participants to explore the winter wonderland.
Overall, this weekend truly encapsulates the joy of community, rich traditions, and the vibrant culture inherent to these two major cities as they bid farewell to winter.