University employees celebrate Maslenitsa at Engelhardt Observatory

The traditional event was held on Sunday, 17 March, the day preceding the Great Lent.

Maslenitsa (Butter Feast) is the weekly ethnic festival in Eastern Christianity marked by many traditions and predominantly known in Russia for its menu – the main item is pancake (blin). At Sunday’s event, the participants could join active games, a culinary competition, a feast with pancakes, and of course, an effigy burning ritual – also an indispensable part of the holiday. There was also a booth with souvenirs from the Chamber of Ethnic Craftwork of Tatarstan.

“For 30 years, in the Astronomical Observatory the university employees have been celebrating Pancake Day. To date, the Trade Union of Kazan University together with the staff of the Institute of Physics and the observatory organized the holiday at the highest level. Participants could visit the museum, planetarium, get acquainted with the history of the observatory and learn about scientific achievements. Most importantly, I would like to note the beautiful weather. I believe that the guests who came to us today will be very satisfied. Impressions of today’s holiday will keep them warm all year round,” said Director of the Engelhardt Observatory Yury Nefedyev.

The attenders could use free transfer from the University and partake in a raffle.