Maslenitsa 2026 Brings Folk Traditions and Spiritual Prep Before Lent
Maslenitsa 2026 Brings Folk Traditions and Spiritual Prep Before Lent
Maslenitsa, also known as Cheesefare Week or Butter Week, will take place from February 16 to 22 in 2026. The festival blends lively folk traditions with spiritual preparation for Lent. In Moscow, celebrations will fill Red Square and other city venues with decorations and events.
The week-long festival is split into two parts: Narrow Lent and Broad Lent. Each day carries its own name and customs, such as 'Meeting', 'Flirting', 'Sweet Tooth', 'Revelry', 'Mother-in-Law’s Evening', and 'Sister-in-Law’s Gatherings'. Food plays a key role, with meat forbidden but dairy, eggs, and fish allowed.
The climax arrives with the burning of the Lent effigy, marking winter’s symbolic end. Forgiveness Sunday, the final day, focuses on reconciliation before Lent begins. This year, Lent starts on February 23, leading up to Easter Sunday on April 12. Moscow will host the main festivities, featuring public gatherings, traditional games, and cultural performances across the city.
Lent 2026 will close with the start of Lent on February 23. The festival’s mix of feasting, rituals, and forgiveness sets the stage for the solemn weeks ahead. Easter Sunday will follow on April 12, completing the religious cycle.
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