Estonian Seto People Celebrate Maslenitsa with New Twists

Seto Community Revives Winter Traditions with Kettle Curling and Pancakes

The Seto community in Estonia recently celebrated Maslenitsa Week, blending old traditions with new winter fun. Known locally as maaselits, the festival marked the end of indulgence before Lent with pancakes, music, and sleigh rides. This year, a playful twist—kettle curling—brought in younger crowds and first-time visitors to the festivities on Lake Obinitsa.

Maslenitsa, or võinädal, took place during the third full week of February, overlapping with Estonia's vastlapäev (Shrove Tuesday) on February 17. The celebrations wrapped up just before Lent began the following day, leading up to Orthodox Easter on April 5. For the Seto people, this festival holds deep cultural meaning, mixing Russian-influenced pagan rituals with Estonian folklore to strengthen their unique Orthodox identity.

On the frozen lake, families enjoyed classic activities like the hand-spun ice carousel (püürhääll) and sledding. Traditional karmoška music filled the air as people shared crepe-style pancakes, a staple of the festival. Among the newer attractions was kettle curling, a local adaptation invented by Aira Tarros. Inspired by Olympic curling, the game used kettles instead of stones, making it easy and fun for all ages.

While strict fasting during Lent is less common now, many in Setomaa still observe the season in their own way. The festival's mix of old and new traditions—from sleigh rides to kettle curling—helped draw dozens to hundreds of locals and visitors, keeping the Seto heritage alive.

The celebrations on Lake Obinitsa brought together generations, from children spinning on the ice carousel to newcomers trying kettle curling. As Lent approached, the festival reinforced community ties and cultural pride among the Seto people. The blend of tradition and innovation ensured another lively maaselits before the quieter days of fasting began.