On 18 February, the Department of Intercultural Communication organized a Maslenitsa celebration for international students in the Preparatory Department. Students and teachers gathered to bid farewell to winter and welcome spring in the traditional Russian style—with pancakes, round dances, and lively games.
Students in the Preparatory Department learned the origins of Maslenitsa, why winter needs to be driven away and spring "buttered up" with treats, why pancakes are baked, and what the "lump" in the proverb "the first pancake is always lumpy" means. The students enjoyed solving riddles about winter, spring, and pancakes.
The event concluded with a friendly tea party. Over a cup of tea, the students were able to share their impressions and gain a deeper understanding of our country's culture. Maslenitsa was a great success!