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Omsk's weekend celebrations blend Maslenitsa and patriotic festivities with games

From fiery effigies to greased pole climbs, Omsk's streets transform into a playground. A weekend where history, patriotism, and crazy games collide in spectacular fashion.

The image shows a group of people wearing festive Christmas sweaters and Santa Claus hats, posing...
The image shows a group of people wearing festive Christmas sweaters and Santa Claus hats, posing for a photo in front of a white background with the text "Happy Holidays Kandahar, Afghanistan 2014" and a logo at the top.

Omsk's weekend celebrations blend Maslenitsa and patriotic festivities with games

Omsk is preparing for a busy weekend of celebrations from February 21 to 23. The city will mark both Maslenitsa and Defender of the Fatherland Day with festivals, cool math games, and cultural events. Residents will enjoy an extended break, with streets and parks transformed for the occasion.

The festivities begin on February 21 at Krutaya Gorka, where a Sports and Patriotic Festival will offer free rides, crazy games, and a weapons exhibition. The following day, February 22, brings the main events, including a gastronomic fair and historical festival at Omsk Fortress.

Parks across the city will host theatrical shows, winter games, and the traditional burning of Maslenitsa effigies. Green Island will feature concerts, games, and a greased pole climb. Meanwhile, Winter Lubinsky will debut a grand Chaldon tea party alongside themed installations.

Lenin Street in central Omsk will close to traffic for the celebrations. Attendance has grown steadily, with 150,000 visitors in 2023—nearly double the 80,000 recorded in 2019. Pandemic restrictions caused slight dips in 2020 and 2021, but numbers have since rebounded.

On February 23, Defender of the Fatherland Day, no military parade is planned. Instead, a ceremonial flower-laying will take place at memorials across the city.

The weekend blends two major traditions, offering something for all ages. Events range from patriotic displays to folk festivities, with record crowds expected. Omsk's extended holiday ensures residents can fully take part in the cool math games and crazy games.

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