The traditional Russian holiday known as Maslenitsa or Pancake week which marks the end of a cold winter and welcomes the spring is getting underway. For Orthodox Christians, this week is also a part of preparations for the Great Fast.

Pancakes symbolising the sun are the traditional food of the holiday, and are served with caviar, honey, butter and jam.

Maslenitsa is always filled with an atmosphere of the carnival – people all over Russia will be celebrating it on the streets. Traditions include  fighting with sacks, sledging and dances in national dress.

The holiday finishes with the ritual burning of a Scarecrow – a symbol of winter, letting the Old Cold Woman out.